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How Spain uses St. Joseph’s feast day to honor all fathers

Figura świętego Józefa trzymającego na rękach śpiącego małego Jezusa

Sidney de Almeida | Shutterstock

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Cerith Gardiner - published on 03/18/25

The Spanish faithful have an unusual way of celebrating Jesus' earthly father, and all the fathers in our lives.

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In Spain, the celebration of Father’s Day holds a unique and deeply meaningful place in the heart of family life. Unlike most countries, every year it falls on March 19, the same day as the feast of St. Joseph — a day that offers a beautiful convergence of tradition and heartfelt gratitude.

It is a time when the quiet heroism of everyday fathers is celebrated alongside the timeless example of Jesus’ earthly father — a model of love, protection, and gentle strength.

This dual celebration invites us to reflect on the profound role that fathers play in our lives. St. Joseph, revered for his steadfast care of the Holy Family, stands as an enduring symbol of humility, responsibility, and unwavering commitment. His silent strength and humble dedication resonate with every father who works tirelessly to build a nurturing home.

On this day, which is kept as a public holiday in two autonomous Spanish communities, Murcia and Valencia, families come together not only to honor a historical figure but also to celebrate the personal and often unspoken sacrifices made by fathers every day.

Along the streets, the air is filled with a quiet reverence mixed with the joy of familial bonds. In homes and churches alike, the legacy of St. Joseph is evoked through small acts of remembrance — a shared prayer, a moment of reflection, or simply the warm embrace of a loved one. These gestures remind us that the essence of fatherhood lies not in grandiose displays, but in the simple, everyday acts of care and kindness that shape our lives.

This overlap of Father’s Day with St. Joseph’s feast transforms a customary celebration into a poignant reminder of the timeless values that sustain us. It is a day that calls on us to appreciate the gentle guidance of our fathers, to recognize their constant support, and to be grateful for the unspoken lessons they impart.

In celebrating fathers — both heavenly and earthly — we are also celebrating the enduring spirit of family — a spirit that nurtures hope, fosters resilience, and inspires each of us to pass on these cherished values to future generations.

Although in America, Father’s Day falls on June 15 this year, you could take inspiration from the Spanish and celebrate fathers everywhere this Wednesday, too!

Tags:
Devotions and FeastsFatherhoodSaint JosephSpain
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