Saint Joseph, Father and Husband

Today we celebrate one of two feast days to honor Saint Joseph, Christ’s earthy father. The full title of today’s feast is the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The fact this this is a Solemnity Feast speak volumes of the Church’s regard toward Saint Joseph.

Solemnities are the highest degree, reserved for the most important mysteries of faith. Saint Joseph was an important part of our salvation. He protected Mary, and cared for a child that was not his, but entrusted to him by God. The virtues of Saint Joseph as both Husband and Father are examples that all men of faith should emulate. He was obedient to God. He was humble in the way he served Mary and Jesus; demonstrating immense selfless love and devotion toward his family. He was a hard worker, providing for his family. Yet he never allowed temptation or worldly influences to sway him from his Godly Calling as a man, a husband and a father.

Studies have shown over and over again that a positive male role model is key in raising well-adjusted children. Just as a man who is open with his faith more often than not leads his children into a more intimate relationship with God, one that lasts a lifetime. Men cannot and should not be dismissed. God did not create Man and Woman equally in their roles. But He did create them equally in their value, their importance and necessity within the family structure. We have far too many single mothers and absentee fathers in the world today. This is not as it should be. Children, and to an extend, society pay the price. We see it more and more today in a breakdown of social structures, a rise in crime, and a disregard for one another. Too often people ask what is in it for me? When provided with positive role modles, especially in the role of father and husband, those children tend to ask what can I do? How can I be of help?

I grew up in a home with a father that put his children first, while also living up to his responsibilities within the community. For me, it is second nature to care for my family while also caring for others. That is not to make light of motherhood. Hers is an equally important roll when it comes to nurturing and selfless serving of others. These are qualities needed within society.

Celebrate the importance of fatherhood not only on Father’s Day, but everyday. Let Saint Joseph be an example in your home.

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When it comes to feasts to celebrate Saint Joseph, often I am drawn to the flavors of the southwest. My fondest story surrounding Saint Joseph is that of the Sisters of Loretto and the miraculous staircase in Santa Fe. While there is no proof that the staircase was built by Saint Joseph, many believe it was in an answer to their prayers. I don’t know if its true, but I like to imagine it was.

Southwest Pork Tenderloin
1 tablespoon Hot Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoons Salt
1-1/2 teaspoons Brown Sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons Sugar
1/2 teaspoon New Mexican Red Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon Ancho Seasoning
1/4teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
1-1/2 teaspoons Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1 lb Pork Tenderloin, trimmed

In a small bowl, stir together paprika, salt, brown sugar, sugar, chili powder, Ancho seasoning, cayenne pepper, cumin and black pepper. Blend well, this will make about 1/4-cup seasoning rub.

Heat oven to 425-degrees.

Season tenderloin with spice rub, massaging into the meat. Place the tenderloin in a shallow pan, roast for about 27 minute or until internal temperature reaches 145-degrees and a beautiful spicy crust forms.

Remove from oven, place on a platter and tent. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into eight serving pieces.

Mexican Skillet Potatoes
6 medium Red Potatoes
1/4 Red Onion
1 tablespoon Jalapeno or other spicy Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 tablespoon Taco Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
2 tablespoons chopped Hatch Green Chilies from a can

Scrub potatoes, cut into cubes and place in a pot. Add enough water to cover the potatoes. Bring to a boil, lower heat to a steady rolling boil and let cook for about 6 minutes or until almost tender. Drain well. Let potatoes sit in a colander to air dry, about 5 minutes or so.

While the potatoes parboil and dry, cut a quarter section from a red onion, root to tip. Peel the quarter section, dice and set aside. Reserve remaining onion for another purpose. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, taco season and paprika, set aside.

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add spicy olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Place potatoes in the heated skillet. Sprinkle spice mix over the potatoes. Add onions and Hatch green chilies. Toss to blend, then spread out in a single layer to brown.

Fry potatoes until beginning to brown, turn and continue to cook until crisp on the outside, soft inside, about 10 minutes or so total. Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving.

For a more rustic presentation, serve potatoes straight from the skillet.

Buttery Canned Corn
1 can Corn
1 tablespoon Butter
Salt to taste

Drain and rinse corn well. Place butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add corn, season with fresh salt to taste. Gently heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy.

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 Blessed are those who dwell in Your house, O Lord;
they never cease to praise You.