People have been celebrating St. Joseph since the early centuries of Christianity, and the tradition will continue with a special dinner sponsored by the Dr. Calabro Lodge in Mastic Beach.
The Sons and Daughters of Italy in America invite the public to the March 27 celebration at 6:30 at the Mastic Beach Property Owners on Neighborhood Road. For ticket information, call Trustee Sal Marino at 631-392-8747.
“Come and enjoy a traditional Italian meal and be entertained with live music. You'll have a festive evening filled with delicious food, great songs, dancing, and lots of fun for everyone,” Marino promised. The event is perfect for seniors and all family members.
Calabro Lodge 3011 is a non-profit organization that provides scholarships, food, toys, and clothing to those in need. It’s named for Dr. Frank Calabro, Sr., a man who had an abundance of concern for the well-being of his community. In 1947, the doctor fulfilled his lifelong dream of opening a hospital in Mastic Beach, which served residents for years.
The Catholic Church officially recognized the St. Joseph feast in 1479 when Pope Sixtus IV added it to the church calendar. However, devotion to St. Joseph dates back even further, with references to his veneration as early as the 9th century.
St. Joseph is one of the most revered figures in Christianity. He is known as the earthly father of Jesus Christ and the husband of the Virgin Mary. Though little is recorded about him in the Bible, he is celebrated for his faith, humility, and dedication to his family. He was a carpenter by trade and is often depicted as a strong yet gentle protector of Jesus and Mary. He is associated with gratitude and charity.
The St. Joseph’s Table tradition, particularly in Sicily, is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages. According to legend, Sicilians prayed to St. Joseph for relief during a severe drought and famine. When the rains finally came, they honored him with a gratitude feast, a tradition that spread to Italian communities worldwide.
St. Joseph’s Day has remained a significant celebration, especially in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Poland, and Italian-American communities, where it is observed with feasts, charitable acts, and religious ceremonies.
St. Joseph has come to be known as the patron saint of fathers and families, workers and carpenters, the Universal Church, and the dying, as he is believed to have died in the presence of Jesus and Mary. St. Joseph's Day, March 18, is a reminder of faith, hard work, and compassion. It is a time for celebration, gratitude, and community service, reflecting the values St. Joseph embodied.