Dear Northern California Caregivers,
As we prepare to celebrate the feast of St. Joseph, we are reminded of the words of Sr. Suzanne Sassus, CSJ, who, along with all the Sisters of St. Joseph, called us to serve in the manner of St. Joseph, “Husband, father and craftsman, he gave himself in loving and generous service to Jesus and Mary, to all those around him. He had many an occasion to feel angry, hurt, confused, threatened. Still, he believed that each day is to be lived by God’s power and strength no matter what challenges it might bring.” We are also reminded of our calling to serve all in the manner of Joseph, especially those who are poor and vulnerable. In fact, these words are part of our new mission statement, part of who we are as a ministry and organization in service to community.
We hope you take advantage of the many celebrations and feasts we will have in honor of St. Joseph in the coming week. Thank you for your service. Thank you for being part of Providence St. Joseph Health. We are blessed by having so many unique, talented and compassionate individuals as colleagues. Your service is truly a gift to our ministry and community.
Julie Malvey and Terri Dente
The Significance of St. Joseph’s Day
March 19 marks the Catholic feast day of St. Joseph. Christian scripture recognizes him as the earthly father of Jesus and the spouse of Jesus’s mother, Mary. He is known to have been entirely “just,” answering the call to put the needs of his wife and family above his own with complete fidelity.
Joseph is also the patron of those who are sick and is said to bring peace to those who are at the end of life. He is known as a patron of builders, as he was a carpenter and is considered to be the patron of those who are fathers. It is no surprise that many of our ministries bear his name.
Every March, we along with the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange celebrate our patron and namesake by distributing hand-painted inspirational cards. Read about Sister Madeleva, here. This year, and for many years to come, we celebrate this special feast as Providence St. Joseph Health along with legacy Providence Health & Services ministries. Let these cards provide you with an opportunity to be inspired as you carry on the good works of the Mission and values.
What can we learn from St. Joseph the man?
The Christian scripture tells us that Joseph was engaged to Mary when he found out she was pregnant. Rather than abandon her, he placed his love for Mary before his own concern and took her as his wife.
As we celebrate St. Joseph Day on March 19, let us focus on the aspects of Joseph that we most want to emulate: his humble service, his compassion, and his openness to step into the unknown guided by God’s love. In this way, we too can be a reflection of Joseph in service to our communities and to each other.