Today, I extend my heartfelt wishes to Catholics and other Christians as they celebrate the Feast of Saint Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus Christ and one of the Bible’s most esteemed figures.
Saint Joseph exemplified the virtues of a father, husband, and worker, embodying Christian principles throughout his life. He dedicated himself tirelessly, without seeking recognition, to protect his family and raise the Son of God. In every challenge and hardship, Saint Joseph led his family with dignity, strength, and moral courage. Faced with uncertainty and danger, he repeatedly submitted to God’s will with faith, fortitude, humility, and obedience, playing a pivotal role in the life of Jesus Christ and the story of salvation.
In American culture, Saint Joseph holds a special significance, particularly among the Italian-American community. Each March 19, Catholics in New Orleans, Louisiana, and across the nation create beautiful altars in his honor. Whether in the factories of St. Louis, Missouri, the deserts of Santa Fe, New Mexico, or in churches, chapels, and homes nationwide, Catholics attribute extraordinary miracles to him. Recognized as the head of the Holy Family, the patron saint of workers, and the “Terror of Demons,” he is admired by countless individuals for setting a powerful example of manhood, fatherhood, and husbandry.
In recent years, our nation has experienced the emergence of an extremist cultural movement aiming to undermine the values upheld by Saint Joseph. However, my Administration envisions a much brighter future for our younger generation. Instead of filling our young men with radicalism and hate, we should encourage them to embrace faith, marry, start families, and nurture the next generation of proud, freedom-loving, God-fearing American citizens. Inspired by his example, we remain committed to preserving Saint Joseph’s legacy in our homes, churches, culture, and public life.
On his feast day, we celebrate Saint Joseph’s remarkable life, honor his numerous silent sacrifices, and pledge to build a promising American future anchored in timeless values of faith in God, love for family, and dedication to human freedom.
