Dear Saints,

Today begins the month of March, which famously “comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” Snowfall and strong winds remind us that winter remains a powerful force even now, while the gentle melt into milder days will awaken us into a season of warm calm and budding life.

March is in many ways very like the man to whom the month is dedicated: Saint Joseph. Joseph had the courage of a lion when safeguarding Mary and Jesus, yet lived with all the meekness of a lamb in his daily life. So receptive to divine will that God could effectively speak to him even as he slept, Joseph was obedient to the Lord’s instructions; as a result, he was equipped to offer steady and decisive protection where it mattered most. Joseph trusted God unconditionally, and that earned him God’s unconditional trust.

As we make our way through the heart of Lent, we would do well to esteem Saint Joseph as a model worth emulating. As March moves along from lion to lamb, we should strive to conform our hearts to his example of strong leadership melded with abiding humility. May we too be bold in defending all that is sacred, even as we are gentle and faithful in loving those entrusted to our care.

Christ’s Peace,

Father Daniel

δοῦλος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ