March 2022 Lilies for Saint Joseph

A Sign of Hope in the Midst of War and the Rumors of War

March 2022 was a tense and difficult time for the world. Ukraine, a small and unobtrusive Christian nation, came under brutal attack by the communist behemoth, Russia. In the shadow of the threat of a third world war, with gas prices escalating and food and housing costs soaring to unprecedented levels, there seemed to be little to be happy about. Underlying all of this, entering the third year of pandemic mask and vaccine mandates, the social tension was palpable.

But in the midst of this darkness, a glimmer of light has been seen. And those with eyes to see are reminded that devotion and recourse to Saint Joseph is still alive and well in the United States.

Saint Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, holds a special place in the hearts of Marian devotees everywhere. In recognition of his feast day on March 19, America Needs Fatima, through an on-line campaign, offered friends and supporters an opportunity to express this devotion in a singular way.

And what way was this? The most fitting offering we could think of was to flood his garden here at ANF headquarters in Spring Grove, PA, with white lilies. The whiteness of the flower represents Saint Joseph’s virtue, holiness, innocence and obedience to God: “He did as the angel commanded” (Mt 1:24; see also Mt 2:14,21,22). The white flower also represents his fidelity to Mary, as well as his chastity and purity because he respected her virginity and remained celibate throughout their marriage: “He had no relations with her” (Mt 1:25a).

Despite all the suffering we are all enduring, thousands of generous souls chose to honor Saint Joseph in a unique way. And the result was simply stunning! The dazzling white of the lilies, contrasting so beautifully against the vibrant greens in the garden, seem to have brought a subtle smile to the face of Saint Joseph.

It is in the miracle of this smile of Saint Joseph that I encourage all friends of Our Lady and devotees of her most chaste spouse to never give up HOPE. Never close your minds or hearts to the miracles that God, in His infinite goodness, has in store for those who love Him. Always and in every circumstance—big and small—turn to the Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph. Together they crossed a desert to keep the baby Jesus safe. They will do the same, and more, for you!