Lent calendar for 19 March

Lent calendar 19 March — A stained glass window depiction of St Joseph.

When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.

MATTHEW 1:24

Today we celebrate St Joseph, the somewhat mysterious but much-loved patron of the whole Church. Other than the infancy narratives, very little is written about Joseph and interestingly we never hear anything Joseph says. He does not speak at all in the gospels. But he does listen. He listens to the angel’s command and takes Mary as his wife. He listens to God’s instructions and takes his family to safety in Egypt and he also hears the call to return.

Juliana, who works for Caritas in Bangladesh, knows the importance of listening. The floating garden project that she supports has been a lifeline for a village which is so submerged it had been impossible to grow anything for six months of the year. Reflecting on her relationships with the community, she tells us:

“My relationship with these families is very deep. When I come to their homes, they consider me a member of their own family. I mix with them like a loved one… This is because whenever I visit their homes, I check in on them. I ask how they are... I share in their joys and sorrows.”

The example of St Joseph and Juliana can remind us of the power of listening deeply, not just hearing words, but receiving them with open hearts. This feast reminds us of the quiet power of a life well lived, loving God and our neighbour.