According to the Gospels of St. Matthew and St. Luke, Joseph was of royal descent; he was an ancestor of the great Jewish king David. He is credited with acting as a foster-father for Jesus during his youth.
It is known that Joseph cared a great deal for Mary. Although Joseph knew that he was not the father of Mary’s child, he refused to abandon her--even when neighbours gossipped and urged Joseph to do so. As Jesus grew up, Joseph gave him guidance and protection.
Although the date of Joseph’s death is unknown, it is assumed that he died before Jesus began his three-year crusade that ended with his death on the cross.
Sources: Saints for All Seasons by Victor J. Green. Avenel Books: 1983.
Also see Catholic On-Line Saints for more information.
Return to St. Joseph School Home Page.