God has a wonderful plan of salvation (see Eph 1:9-10). Abraham was an important part of that plan. "He is father of us all" (Rm 4:16). David also had an important part in God's plan, for from his family came Jesus, the Messiah (2 Sm 7:12ff). We all have special parts in God's plan, and it's important to know our parts (Col 1:9) and those of others.

For example, St. Joseph's part in God's plan was to be the foster-father of Jesus and husband of Mary (Mt 1:20ff). Over the centuries, the Lord has told us more about Joseph's part in God's plan. For instance, Saint André Bessette of Montreal prayed to Joseph and many thousands have received miraculous healing.

Also, Pope Pius XII established the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, on May Day, May 1. This opposed Communism and its manipulative oppression of workers, liberating them. Because of Pope Pius XII's understanding of Joseph's part in God's plan, Communism was shaken and eventually fell.

Finally, many Christians have found out that Joseph is part of God's plan in giving us happy and holy deaths. Knowing this obviously has great significance. Be in God's plan. Ask St. Joseph to pray for you.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, September 28, 2015

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