Archdiocese of Denver

12 THE YEAR OF ST. JOSEPH | ARCHDIOCESE OF DENVER Joseph inspires me through his lack of words. To me, his actions are demonstrated through the virtues of faith, hope and love. The Feast of St. Joseph offers a wonderful reminder for me to be the best husband, father, son, brother and neighbor that I can be. I petition to St. Joseph that he hear the prayers of all fathers as they strive to live virtuous lives in defense of their faith, family and neighbor. - ROB T., ARVADA, CO St. Joseph loved us "behind-the- scenes." He inspired me to be of service to my wife and kids and to be an active Knight of Columbus who has worked behind-the-scenes helping countless others and the Catholic Church. In March, I was "the stranger" at Visionworks who paid for a poor mother's new eyeglasses after she had fallen and broken her prescription glasses, badly bruising her face. Medicaid would only pay for the eye examination. - JOSEPH THE HELPER, WESTMINSTER, CO I love that it is very clear in scripture how he respected the dignity of Mary in that he ini- tially wanted to divorce her quietly for this reason. Also in following God's plan, it likely was perceived poorly that he married her and the timing of her pregnancy/birth. It's a hard thing to do God's will when how others perceive you is at stake. Joseph inspires me to remember God's love for me and my family and not let the manner in which others may perceive me hinder my judgement. - JESSICA B. How does St. Joseph inspire you? Ask the Readers In honor of this Year of St. Joseph, we asked readers to share how St. Joseph has inspired them in their own lives. Here are some of the responses we received. St. Joseph, pray for us! St. Joseph is that kind of unsung hero to me, working hard to protect and pro- vide for Jesus and Mary, not seeking his own glory, but providing and sharing in theirs. It doesn't say how St. Joseph died, but I'm sure he gave every bit of his life in love and service to God. It is fitting that we have this year to honor him. - JOHN E. St. Joseph inspires me because even as he worked, he was in the presence of God. He reminds me that work can be a time of grace and that God can meet me even in the stresses and joys of daily tasks. - CHELSEA M., BOULDER, CO "

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