LETTER: Saint Joseph is an example for all fathers

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, I believe it is appropriate to focus a little time on His dad.

Saint Joseph had more than his share of challenges, when it came to being the best dad ever. Right from the beginning he married a pregnant 16-year-old girl, whose child was not his. The challenges only got greater from there.

Never mind the talk and rumors of a small town; he had to attend to a young wife whose child was growing in her womb, right before his eyes. Then traveling in winter with a very pregnant wife. Can you imagine his concern and frustration, in not even being able to properly care for them? No room at the inn, no midwife, no help, cold, damp, smelly, and dirty. Visits from angels, shepherds, and wise men, throw in a few visions from an angel, and fleeing in the middle of the night to Egypt.

His challenges were overwhelming, if not for his faith in God, his hope beyond telling, and his total love for his little family — “the Holy Family.” These are what got him up every morning, willing to face whatever challenge the day held.

So as we reflect on this man, not superman, just a man like us, let us resolve to do better, as we enter a New Year of hope and challenge.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and God bless us all. —Jay Trepanier, Kalispell