Archbishop Arshad: Like Saint Joseph, fathers should take care of their family’s salvation

In a video message the archbishop said that Saint Joseph contributed to God's work by taking care of Mary and the child Jesus. The father's role is important in every family.

Islamabad (AsiaNews) – On Tuesday, Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi announced in a video message on the Hail Mary Catholic TV YouTube channel that 2021 will also be the Year of Saint Joseph in his diocese.

The head of the Catholic Church in Islamabad-Rawalpindi reminded his flock that Pope Francis issued an Apostolic Letter Patris Corde (With a father’s heart) on 8 December, proclaiming 2021 the Year of Saint Joseph (8 December 2020 to 8 December 2021) to mark the 150th anniversary of the declaration of Saint Joseph as patron saint of the Universal Church.

In 1870 the Blessed Pope Pius IX proclaimed a Year of Saint Joseph as patron of the Universal Church. To mark the anniversary, “we too began this year in our diocese on 1 January 2021, so that we can show greater reverence to Saint Joseph and change our lives,” Archbishop Arshad said.

Saint Joseph was a tender and loving father who cared for Jesus and his family, the prelate explained. He was a just man who – very faithfully, following God's will – contributed to our salvation; his life was full of love and simplicity.

As an ordinary carpenter, Saint Joseph worked hard with enthusiasm and led and cared for his family, that God's work may be accomplished through the Child Jesus.

As head of the Holy Family and protector of Mother Mary and Jesus, Saint Joseph is the protector and defender of the Catholic Church and of all the poor, the needy and the suffering humanity. He is with each of us and leads us to Jesus whom he guided and protected.

The Archbishop of the Islamabad-Rawalpindi noted in his message that during the year-long celebration of Saint Joseph, the role of parents, especially fathers, will be very important.

Therefore, the father, as the head of the family and following in the footsteps of Saint Joseph, must take care and protect his children and family.

Lastly, Archbishop Arshad ended his message with a prayer that the Year of Saint Joseph be a blessing for all of us, our families and the Church.

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