St. Joseph the Worker

Dear SJW Parishioners:

Good summer week to all of you!  I pray your days are filled, or at least somewhat filled, with fun gatherings, family time, and relaxation.  We deserve it, don’t we?  J

This upcoming week has several celebrations of important Saints.  Let us delve further----

ST MARY MAGDALENE - JULY 22^ND

St. Mary Magdalene was a disciple of Jesus who journeyed with Jesus during His ministry.  Jesus cured her of possession.  She was present at the foot of the Cross while He suffered and died.  She was the first to witness to the Resurrected Jesus.  Often called the “apostle of the Apostles,”  Mary Magdalene is the patroness of the Order of Preachers.

As Mary Magdalene was close to Jesus, do we draw close to Jesus daily?

JAMES, APOSTLE - JULY 25^TH

St. James was one of the original 12 Apostles chosen by Jesus.  He was the brother of John the Apostle.  He was the first Apostle to be martyred, occurring in the year 44 A.D.  He is sometimes called “James, the Greater,” to differentiate him from the other Apostle named James, as this James (July 25^th) was called first by Jesus before the other James.  He is the patron saint of Spain and pilgrims.

How “great” are we in living our Catholic faith?

 STS. JOACHIM & ANNE, PARENTS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN - JULY 26

St. Joachim & St. Anne had the privilege of being the parents of Mary, the Mother of God.  Little more than that is known about them, but they must have been wonderful examples of the Jewish faith to raise a daughter like the Blessed Virgin.  Anne is the patroness of childless women and miners.  Devotion to Joachim dates especially from the 8^th century.

How do we continue to be as loving as were these two exceptional parents?

 Have a blessed summer week!

Your Pastor, Father Joe