Saint Joseph

St Joseph History

The Observance of Saint Joseph serves to honour the life of Saint Joseph of Nazareth, the legal father of Jesus Christ. This observance also reflects on Saint Joseph's virtues such as his unwavering faith, unquestioning obedience to divine command and diligent protection of the Holy Family. Recognized as a model of righteousness and the patron saint of workers, Saint Joseph is venerated in various ways; including special church services, processions, and feasts.

Saint Joseph's observance has its roots dating back to the medieval era and has gradually developed significant resonance within the Canadian context. Canada, known for its cultural diversity, has a substantial population of Catholics, for whom Saint Joseph holds immense significance. In the Canadian context, Saint Joseph is also recognized as the patron saint of Canada since 1624, declared so by the country's first bishop, François de Laval. His virtuous life, simple demeanor, and respect for work resonate with the cultural ethos of Canadians, augmenting the relevance of Saint Joseph’s day in the country.

Many Canadians celebrate Saint Joseph's day with great enthusiasm. Travellers often visit the Saint Joseph's Oratory in Montreal, the largest shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph in the world, on this day for special services. Activities include prayer sessions, processions, sharing of Saint Joseph's bread and a feast symbolizing the Last Supper. Saint Joseph's day is observed annually on March 19th, aligning with the liturgical calendar of the Roman Catholic Church.

Top 7 Facts for 2026 Saint Joseph in Canada

• Saint Joseph has held the title of Patron of Canada for over 400 years, a designation originally established in 1624 by the missionary Father Joseph Le Caron and later officially ratified by the Holy See in 1834.
• Dedicated to this patronage, the Saint Joseph’s Oratory of Mount Royal in Montreal stands as the largest church in Canada and features a majestic dome that ranks as the third-largest of its kind in the world.
• The shrine’s founder, Saint André Bessette, is a figure of immense cultural importance in Quebec known as le bon frère André, and he was canonized as Canada's first male saint following a life famously dedicated to healing and the construction of the oratory.
• Every year, the observance draws thousands of pilgrims to Montreal who climb the 283 steps of the oratory, including a central wooden staircase specifically reserved for those ascending on their knees as an act of prayer.
• Beyond religious services, the day is marked by vibrant culinary traditions in Italian-Canadian communities where many seek out the Zeppole di San Giuseppe, a seasonal deep-fried pastry filled with custard and topped with a black cherry.
• A particularly unique aspect of the oratory’s history that often prompts curiosity is the preservation of the heart of Saint André Bessette, which is displayed in a reliquary within the museum of the Saint Joseph’s Oratory.
• Architectural enthusiasts frequently note that the oratory is technically the highest building in Montreal, as its location on the summit of Mount Royal allows its cross to reach an elevation that surpasses the city’s skyscrapers due to local height restrictions.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Saint Joseph

Top things to do in Canada for Saint Joseph's Day

• Practice carpentry skills to build something. Jesus is known as the son of a carpenter, or builder. Saint Joseph is the patron saint of carpenters.
• Visit an Italian bakery and pick up St Joseph's bread (Pane di San Giuseppe). St. Joseph's Bread is typically made with egg and has a thicker crust. It is often marked or shaped in a cross.
• Read a book to learn more about Saint Joseph:
  Rediscover Saint Joseph: A Minimalist Approach to God's Not-So-Ordinary Superhero - by Robert B. Keane - It may not be specific to Canada but it gives a good overview of Saint Joseph's life and works.
  The Life and Glories of Saint Joseph - by Edward Healy Thompson - One of the most comprehensive books about Saint Joseph, giving insights about his life and miracles attributed to him.
• Visit the Oratory Museum in Montreal, Quebec, which depicts historical and artistic artifacts.