Cardinal Tobin: St. Joseph is a man for all seasons, but is especially needed now
St. Joseph is a man for all seasons, but his intercession and example are especially needed in troubled times like these, writes Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R. in the latest edition of his Rejoice in the Lord newsletter.
“The Year of Saint Joseph is a time to heal the deep wounds in our society by calling attention to the dignity and human rights of every man, woman and child,” the Cardinal continues. “It’s a time to rebuild our economy according to principles and policies that truly serve our people. Finally, this year is a time for building bridges and reconciling our differences as individuals, families and communities who have too long been divided—politically, economically and socially.”
He goes on to say: “It shouldn’t surprise anyone to learn that I have a strong personal devotion to St. Joseph, my namesake. His silent strength, his fidelity to God’s will, his loving care for Mary and his paternal presence in Jesus’ formative years have always inspired me. I pray to St. Joseph for guidance and encouragement as I struggle to be a good man, an attentive listener to the Word of God and a faithful servant of the people I’m called to serve as a spiritual father.”
In the seven-page newsletter, Cardinal Tobin discusses his recent announcement that Catholics in the Archdiocese of Newark are dispensed from the obligation to abstain from eating meat on Friday, March 19, the Solemnity of St. Joseph.
The newsletter also contains an excerpt entitled “Seven Characteristics of St. Joseph” from Pope Francis’ Apostolic letter known as Patris Corde issued when the Holy Father announced the year of Saint Joseph until Dec. 8, 2021.
Pope Francis speaks about the “creative courage” of St. Joseph because in every threatening circumstance he was required to improvise and to make the best of the situation he found himself in.
In his newsletter, Cardinal Tobin also explains why the Catholic Church opposes the Reproductive Freedom Act in New Jersey.
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