St. Joseph, Most Valiant, Pray for Us!

This title of St. Joseph from the litany is an interesting choice to be included in the twelve titles found inscribed in the St. Joseph Chapel. Valiant is a word that is not used as much today. Rather, the use of strong or courageous is more commonplace. Yet, there is a charm in its use with St. Joseph. He was called upon to be brave and stouthearted, as the word valiant implies. He was entrusted with protecting the most precious of treasures during his lifetime. When the life of the child was put at risk due to the rage of Herod the King. St. Joseph proved to be truly valiant in this time of crisis. Added to this was a journey across the desert, a task that taxed the strength of even the strongest of men! The carpenter, though silent, had great faith, and this was the source of his strength and courage. It is what made him valiant! So, in the middle of the night, this valiant man proceeded forth with the mother and child and began this perilous journey to Egypt for the safety of the family entrusted to his care. What great love and devotion St. Joseph had for Mary and Jesus! It is the same love and devotion he has for us as members of the Church, the body of Christ, of which he is protector.

Here in lies the key to the choice of this title. The Sisters of St. Joseph surely had to rely on the protection of St. Joseph as they began their journey to Tipton to start the new foundation in 1888. His example of faith and courage amid trials surely was a source of inspiration. Also, as they traveled to Ireland and back with new postulants for the order, St. Joseph’s valiant protection was certainly invoked. Finally, with the new endeavors of hospitals, schools, and new ministry opportunities around the state and in other countries, the valiant Joseph’s protection and example of faith and courage in the face of the unknown was a source of strength.

The statue of St. Joseph the Worker standing behind the young boy Jesus is a wonderful example of the title most valiant. Carved out of Lindenwood, this image of St. Joseph was recently restored to its place in the Chapel. (Original to the 1957 building, it was removed during the 2016 Chapel restoration as adjustments were made to the pedestal. We were able to re-install this statue, and it’s Marian companion, in May of 2021.)  In this image, we see St. Joseph in his carpenter’s apron with his sleeves rolled up. His strong yet loving hand rests upon our Lord’s shoulder. This courageous man took seriously his role of being protector of the Holy Family! It is a source of inspiration for all who visit this beautiful chapel to be strong and valiant in our faith!