5 Ways St. Joseph was also a regular dad

As March 19 is the feast day of St. Joseph, it gives us the opportunity to reflect on his saintly life. We're often inspired by Jesus' earthly father for his deep faith, humility, and devotion — but beyond his impressive virtues, he was also a regular dad. Although, admittedly, he wouldn't have had to take a young Jesus to soccer practice, he was a loving, hardworking, and protective father.

In fact Joseph's life offers us practical examples of what it means to care for a family every day. And as you'll see below, there are five distinct ways St. Joseph was just like any other dad — and why that makes him such a relatable model for us all.

As a skilled carpenter, St. Joseph worked hard to put food on the table and provide a stable home for Mary and Jesus. Whether he was crafting furniture or repairing structures, his diligent work ensured that the Holy Family had what they needed. His commitment to a trade reminds us that being a good provider is about dedication and practical work — even in the midst of life’s challenges.

Joseph wasn’t just a provider; he was a guardian. When danger loomed — from the threat of Herod’s decree to the perils of travel in ancient times — Joseph stepped up to protect Mary and Jesus. His decisive actions, like following divine guidance to flee to Egypt, show that sometimes the simplest acts of care are the most heroic. In many ways, his protective instinct is the same one we see in dads who put their family’s safety first every day.

Though the Gospels don't show him speaking, St. Joseph’s life speaks volumes. He led by example — demonstrating integrity, humility, and perseverance. By working diligently in his trade and living out his responsibilities without fanfare, he quietly taught Jesus the values of hard work and honest living. In our daily lives, Joseph reminds us that actions often speak louder than words.

Joseph’s support for Mary during uncertain times — accepting her despite the challenges of a miraculous conception — highlights his role as a dependable partner. He listened to divine guidance and acted on it without hesitation, showing that true love and support sometimes mean stepping into the unknown with courage. This down-to-earth quality makes him a model for modern dads who strive to be partners and protectors in their families.

Above all, St. Joseph’s quiet humility and authenticity make him relatable. He didn’t seek glory for himself but worked steadily in the background, caring for his family in practical, everyday ways. His simple, honest life reminds us that greatness often comes in the form of everyday devotion and that the small, loving acts of a parent can have a lasting impact.