In this special year, which the Holy Father has dedicated to Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus, the people of God are showing particular devotion and affection toward this saint. Indeed, no one knew and appreciated Mary's privileges more than Saint Joseph, and no one after Mary welcomed the mystery of God's love manifested in Jesus more than he did.

Editrice Shalom has always paid particular attention to promoting devotion to the guardian of the Redeemer through the publication of books for study and prayer.
One of the most beloved volumes is undoubtedly “Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus”, written by the authoritative pen of Father Tullio Locatelli, superior general of the Congregation of Saint Joseph (Murialdo Josephites). 
A reprint has just been published, and Father Tullio has enriched it with further insights and an article on Pope Francis's apostolic letter “Patris Corde” for the 150th anniversary of the declaration of Saint Joseph as patron of the universal Church.

We asked Father Tullio Locatelli a few questions to learn more about his book “Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus”.

Father Tullio, can you tell us how you came up with the idea for this book and what its distinctive contents are?
For some time now, I have been publishing articles on Saint Joseph for our Congregation's magazines. So I decided to collect some of them into a booklet, which I distributed on the occasion of my 40th anniversary of priestly ordination. I do not say anything new, and above all I do not engage in theological or exegetical discussions, but I try to speak to any potential reader, highlighting reflection more than the scholarly research that I naturally carried out personally.

Your book brings out all the main characteristics of Saint Joseph, the guardian of Jesus and Mary. Which do you think is the most important and distinctive?
I believe that Saint Joseph is the mature man in faith. In this respect, his example is offered to every category of person. What we call obedience is understandable only within a process of human and religious growth. Accepting another person's plan, even if that other person were God himself, is not easy. And remaining faithful to it is often very difficult. Saint Joseph makes God's plan his own and fulfills it responsibly to the end.

Pope Francis dedicated a year to Saint Joseph, who is perhaps too often forgotten. What do you think of this decision?
The 150th anniversary of Saint Joseph's proclamation as patron of the Universal Church could not pass in silence, all the more so because Pope Francis invoked Saint Joseph to protect his apostolic service to the whole Church. Therefore, this year is also an expression of the Pope's personal devotion. Of course, it is also an opportunity to resume discussion of devotion to this saint, which is often set aside and often not grounded in a biblical and spiritual way.

Your book has been a great success and has been reprinted with new additions. Do you think this confirms how strong the faithful's love for Saint Joseph was even before the Pope's decision?
Devotion to Saint Joseph has never been absent among the people, and popular devotion has often preceded dogmas, theologies, and other developments. I see a certain fervor around Saint Joseph these days: perhaps it is also true that beneath the ashes there is always a flame ready to be rekindled and shine again. I hope it is not just a flash in the pan! This society may find it difficult to speak of obedience, a good death, silence… but it feels the need for them, especially these days.

What recommendations would you like to give our readers for making the most of this special year of Saint Joseph?
 There are several suggestions connected with “Patris corde” for obtaining a plenary indulgence: let us make good use of them. I tell readers to read little by little and, above all, to put their hearts into it so they can grasp the affectionate and endearing nuances that learning about the figure and mission of Saint Joseph can awaken. After reading, contemplate the beautiful photographs, which often speak and say more than words. Happy year of Saint Joseph!

Thank you, Father Tullio, and a happy year of Saint Joseph to you too!

I look forward to seeing you in the comments!
Have a blessed journey.