In following the papal tradition that designated the Year of Faith, Year of the Eucharist and the Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis has established the Year of St. Joseph, which began December 8, 2020. In doing so, he has recognized St. Joseph’s 150^th anniversary of the saint’s proclamation (made by Pope Pius IX) as patron of the Universal Church.

Pope Francis did this so “every member of the faithful, following his example, may strengthen their life of faith daily in the complete fulfillment of God’s will.”[i]

The current world health crisis prompted Pope Francis to reflect on St. Joseph, who protected Mary and Jesus. He encourages us to be like Joseph and go without pageantry to minister to those in need. Pope Francis also wanted to focus on St. Joseph as a father who served his family with charity and humility, adding, “Our world today needs fathers.”[ii]

During this Year of St. Joseph, Catholics have the opportunity to obtain a special plenary indulgence by doing certain acts such as praying the rosary with their family. Note that confession, Communion, and prayer for the pope’s intentions must accompany these acts to obtain any plenary indulgence.

According to the decree issued by the Apostolic Penitentiary on Dec. 8, 2020, there are 15 ways to receive an indulgence in the Year of St. Joseph. Here are a few:
- Participate in a spiritual retreat for at least one day that includes a meditation on St. Joseph. 
- Pray for St. Joseph’s intercession for the unemployed that they might find dignifying work.
- Follow St. Joseph’s example in performing a corporal work of mercy. These include feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, visiting the imprisoned, visiting the sick, and burying the dead.
- Perform one of the spiritual works of mercy, such as comforting the sorrowful, counseling the doubtful, instructing the ignorant, admonishing the sinner, bearing wrongs patiently, forgiving injuries, and praying for the living and the dead.
In a recent publication of the Beacon[iii], Bishop Sweeney mentioned he has already begun to work with diocesan leaders to formulate a plan for ways the Diocese can share in the blessings and graces of this Holy Year. While the plan is being developed, Bishop Sweeney suggests visiting Fr. Don Calloway’s website and perhaps reading his book; “The Consecration of St. Joseph.”

At St. Elizabeth’s, we plan to offer a monthly reflection during this year that will focus on some aspect of St. Joseph that we hope you will find inspiring.

Also, please enjoy the video of Joseph’s Song, performed by Ralph Meola, accompanied by Ann Majewski.