"St. Joseph and Baby Jesus" by Jason Jenicke

Father’s Day is close upon us. This year’s celebrations and traditions will no doubt be quite different from previous years. At this time of year schools often reflect upon the many faces of fatherhood and the wonderful men who guide, love and care for the students in our school. Carroll College recognises these men with our annual Father’s Day Breakfast which would have been held this week. Whilst we are unable to host the event this year, we still pay our respects to and give thanks for the fathers of Carroll College.

Another father who plays a highly significant role within the Catholic Church is St Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. On 8 December 2020, Pope Francis published an Apostolic Letter, Patris corde (With a Father’s Heart). Each year at this time, the Pope declares a new theme for the Church. Pope Francis declared the year from 8 December 2020 - 8 December 2021, the Year of St Joseph. The Pope has chosen to recognise St Joseph in this special way and to acknowledge the 150^th anniversary of the declaration of St Joseph as the Patron of the Universal Church.

The Vatican News website has written a wonderful reflection on Patris corde. A link to the article is below. Of the many wonderful reflections on the Apostolic letter found in the article, this passage resonated with me:

Fathers are not born, but made,” says Pope Francis. “A man does not become a father simply by bringing a child into the world, but by taking up the responsibility to care for that child.”…Children, the Pope says, need fathers who will not try to dominate them, but instead raise them to be “capable of deciding for themselves, enjoying freedom and exploring new possibilities.

St Joseph is a wonderful model of fatherhood. He was a man dedicated to the protection, development and well-being of others. St Joseph’s selflessness and love for Mary and Jesus make him one of the most admired of Saints.  As the patron Saint of fathers, he is recognised and honoured at this time, along with all the fathers who are part of the Carroll College community.

Pope Francis proclaims “Year of St Joseph”

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-12/pope-francis-proclaims-year-of-st-joseph.html

Erica Drewsen

Religious Education Coordinator