Saturday 18 December

Jeremiah 23:5-8; Psalm 72:1-2, 12-13, 18-19; Matthew 1:18-24

Joseph the just man

St Joseph is holy. Some saints and Doctors of the Church claim that Our Lady herself told Joseph how she came to be pregnant. He was prepared to divorce her so that he would not impede God’s plan for her. Strong in faith, he discerned the dream as a message from God. He immediately took the roles of protector of Mary and earthly father to Jesus. Joseph is a man of immense courage. He is steadfast in faith, hope and charity. Joseph, guardian of family life, patron of the universal Church, pray for us.