Feast of St. Giuseppe (Father's Day)
Description:
According to popular beliefs, St. Giuseppe (Joseph), the husband of the Virgin Mary, the father of Christ is the holy protector of the poor and disadvantaged, since the most vulnerable can appeal for intercession to the most powerful saints.
On this day, there are two main feelings: hospitality and family love.
St. Giuseppe Day is celebrated in different regions of Italy, where a special feast is arranged.
For example, in Sicily, on March 19 of each year, it is customary to invite the poor to a banquet in honor of the day of St. Giuseppe. The priest consecrated dishes and the poor ate, and the owner of the house served them.
In some cities, feasts are held at churches, and while two priests serve meals to the poor, a third prays nine times, that is, as many times as the dishes on the table.
St. Giuseppe is also a symbol of purity, chastity and therefore is the protector of girls. In the people there are many proverbs, sayings and poems with requests to find a good husband. This saint is one of the most beloved by families and therefore one of the most famous, powerful saints.
In addition to the protection of the poor, the disadvantaged and girls, Saint Giuseppe is also, by virtue of his profession, the patron of all carpenters, who have long been the main initiators of celebrations in honor of “his” saint.
St. Giuseppe’s Day is also associated with two specific events that are in varying degrees present in all regions of Italy: a fire and the preparation of special, traditional dishes.
If we talk about the secular Father’s Day, it is less popular than Mother’s Day, but still celebrated.
On this day, everyone should remember that he has a father and congratulate him. The most popular gifts for this occasion are items of clothing, accessories, perfume or a book, but most importantly - respect, expression of feelings for their fathers. Moreover, they can be non-biological fathers, that is, teachers, coaches, colleagues.