1st century; declared patron of the Universal Church by Pope Pius IX in 1870, patron of workers by Pope Benedict XV, patron of social justice by Pope Pius XI; name added to the canon of the Mass by John XIII in 1962; second feast at Saint Joseph the Worker on May 1.
1st Century BC to 1st Century ADFeast Days include March 19 (Feast of St. Joseph), May 1 (Feast of St. Joseph the Worker)
Protector of the Universal Church and Patron Saint of Fathers, Workers, and the Dying
All that is known about Joseph is found in the Gospels (primarily Matthew 1-2, but also in Luke 1-2). Matthew broadly represents Joseph's viewpoint, while the Infancy narratives in Luke seem to come from Mary's.
Descended from the royal line of David, Saint Joseph was the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who defended her good name, and foster father and protector of the God Who made him, yet Who wished to be known throughout His life as the son of Joseph.
At times he may be shown (1) with the Christ Child, two doves in a cage, and a lily; (2) with the Christ Child and a lily; (3) in scenes with the Holy Family; (4) with carpenter's tools; (5) as the angel appears to him in a dream; (6) working in a carpenter's shop with the boy Jesus near him; or (7) dying, supported by Christ and the Virgin Mary.