Saint Joseph has been honored by the Church since its early beginnings, and over time, St. Joseph has been invoked through numerous titles.
These titles allude to his great role in salvation history, being the protector of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Son of David
We read in the Gospel of Matthew the Genealogy of Jesus. Here it is seen that Joseph is a direct descendant of King David. It is through Joseph that Jesus become part of the Davidic Line.
Husband of Mary
In the Gospels we read of Joseph’s willingness to take Mary as his wife. Their union, albeit virginal, was also real. Here we see the essential qualities of a God-fearing Man: gentleness, docility, and humility.
Protector of the Holy Family
When the Holy Family fled to Egypt, it was Joseph who was tasked to bring them safely from Bethlehem to Egypt. Here we see his role as a Father, who protects, guides, and leads the family away from danger. Indeed, his role as a protector is a reflection of the ever-abiding providence of God our Father.
Terror of Demons
Demons fear obedience. We see in the Gospels that demons trembled before Jesus for he was the Favored Son of God: a title that was borne out of obedience to the will of the Father. In Saint Joseph we see that obedience — that willingness to entrust everything to God — the resolve to be docile and follow him. It is this shining example which makes demons abhor him — his humility which makes the evil one cower in fear.
Protector of the Universal Church
This title was given by Pope Pius IX in the year 1870. This is a testament to the Church’s unwavering trust in Saint Joseph, that just as he protected the Holy Family here on earth, he now continues to watch over and guide the Church, as she continues her pilgrim journey on earth.
Model of Workers
In the Gospels, Jesus is described as “The Carpenter’s Son.” This close affiliation with Joseph’s work implies that he was brought up by Joseph in that very trade: a trade Joseph exercised with diligence and dignity.
In Saint Joseph, we see what our disposition towards work should be: diligent and persevering. When we exercise these virtues, we sanctify our work and, like Saint Joseph, allow our labor to lead us closer to God.
The main titles of Saint Joseph reveal one central truth: Greatness in God’s Kingdom is hidden, obedient, and faithful.
Despite his silence in Scripture, the life of Saint Joseph reminds us to be courageous despite uncertainty, to exercise faith in the simplest ways; and to love without measure.