This week we are discussing “the just man,” Saint Joseph. Pope Francis describes Saint Joseph as “a beloved father, a tender and loving father, an obedient father, an accepting father; a father who is creatively courageous, a working father, a father in the shadows.” From the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception in 2020 to the same feast in 2021, Pope Francis has announced this current liturgical year to be the “Year of Saint Joseph.” What an amazing reminder for us all to be vulnerable and striving to please the Will of God! What do we know about the foster-father of our Lord? What can we take from both scripture and tradition to paint a picture of the saintly father figure we venerate today? Saint Joseph is described in the Bible as “a just man” and of the royal line of King David. He is righteous and answered the Lord’s call to be Mary’s husband and the protector of the Holy Family. While there are not many details of his life and death contained within Sacred Scripture, we are able to infer the type of man he must have been to be able to hold the sacred position of earthly fatherhood to God Incarnate. Saint Teresa of Avila tells us: “Knowing by experience St. Joseph’s astonishing influence with God, I would wish to persuade everyone to honor him with particular devotion. I have always seen those who honored him in a special manner make progress in virtue, for this heavenly protector favors in a striking manner the spiritual advancement of souls who commend themselves to him.” And Blessed Pope Pius IX implores us to: “Go to Joseph! Have recourse with special confidence to St. Joseph, for his protection is most powerful, as he is the patron of the universal Church.” If you want for information or resources on this year's dedication to Saint Joseph, check out: yearofstjoseph.org.  Thank you so much again for praying along with us and all of The Prayer Podcast listeners. Our hope is that we are able to provide you with another tool to bring you closer to God. If you have any specific prayer intentions, questions, or feedback for The Prayer Podcast, please check out: theprayerpodcast.fm/welcome to connect with us or sign up to be a part of our prayer chain email list. We are also available on all social media platforms. If you are interested in supporting this ministry, please visit our Patreon page at patreon.com/theprayerpodcast. Thank you and may God bless you!