The Spirituality Series of Father Eustáquio: Devotion to Saint Joseph

The Spirituality Series of Father Eustáquio: Devotion to Saint Joseph

In the penultimate piece on the Spirituality of Blessed Father Eustace, a very strong devotion that always accompanied him is discussed. Saint Joseph, the patron saint of the Church, is an inseparable companion in the Blessed's firm and strong faith.

Devotion to Saint Joseph has always flourished among holy souls, as the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the foster father of Jesus, and the patron of souls in their interior life. Saint Joseph, patron of the Church, has also always been the patron of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts, and therefore, the Blessed's devotion to the Saint could not be otherwise.

Father Eustace's love for Saint Joseph is clearly evident in almost all of his letters. There is always the possibility of speaking about the husband of the Virgin Mary. Here are some of his frequently used expressions:“May Saint Joseph always guide and protect you… Saint Joseph, guide us. Saint Joseph, protect us. Saint Joseph, always guide us on the path of your holy will.”.

The Blessed One's devotion to Jesus' adoptive father can be seen in several texts, one of which is this:“We know of no holier names than those of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. This order of names already indicates the prominent place that Saint Joseph occupies in the Kingdom of God. Let us consider Saint Joseph as head of the family. Saint Joseph is the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Holy Fathers declare that God wished to give her a husband to safeguard her honor, to keep the secret of Jesus' divine nature until the hour determined by Divine Providence, and to always be a comfort and support to Our Lady. A foster father was necessary to form an exemplary family, one of the best among Christian families.”.