Go to Joe!

As we continue to journey with the Church through this beautiful Year of Saint Joseph, we celebrate today the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The famous Latin phrase Ite Ad Joseph means, “Go to Joseph.” Do you go to Saint Joseph like Mary and Jesus did?

My personal devotion to Saint Joseph began in my twenties while I was discerning my vocation. My heart desired to say yes to wherever God would lead. I desired to grow deeper in my faith, but I did not know where to go.

Where do I go to help me grow in holiness?
How will I find my way?
Who will be my guide?
Who will encourage me along the way?

And as I walked forward in faith, I began to notice Saint Joseph more. He showed up in homilies, religious art, conversations, and spiritual reading. And I noticed how Saint Joseph always seemed to be on the go.

Joseph walked with Mary and Jesus from Nazareth to Bethlehem, then Bethlehem to Egypt, and then back home from Egypt to Nazareth. Joseph also walked three times a year from Nazareth to Jerusalem. And as he walked with the Holy Family, he guarded, protected, and cared for his beloved Spouse and Son. Saint Joseph knew how to love Mary and Jesus.

Saint Joseph invites us into the intimacy of the Holy Family. He wants to include us in his family life to teach us how to love Mary and Jesus. He wants to help guide us along our personal, unique path to holiness. Saint Joseph is not afraid to take us into his home and into his heart.

Saint Joseph is still on the go today, and there are special graces available to us during this Year of Saint Joseph. Will you “Go to Saint Joe”?

Sister, Saint Joseph wants to help you grow in holiness. He wants to help you find your way. He wants to be your guide. He wants to encourage you along the way. Invite Saint Joseph into your prayer today and receive, with Mary and Jesus, the gift of his loving protection.

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Looking for a Saint Joseph novena? Here's a great one.