
In Imitation of St. Joseph
To understand the spirituality of the Oblates of St. Joseph, we must first understand the devotion of our founder, St. Joseph Marello, to St. Joseph himself. Marello saw Joseph as the model of a life lived in close relationship with Jesus. For him, to imitate Joseph was ultimately to imitate Christ.




St. Joseph in the Spirituality of St. Joseph Marello
Joseph’s greatness comes not from public works, but from his faithful presence in the life of Jesus. His humility, calm, and quiet strength reveal the virtues needed for a life of holiness. By following Joseph’s example, we learn how to live with trust in God, remain peaceful in difficulty, and grow in our relationship with Jesus and Mary.
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Marello encouraged the Oblates to look to Joseph not only as a model, but also as an intercessor and guide in the interior life. Joseph’s closeness to Jesus makes him a powerful helper in leading us toward deeper union with Christ.
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For this reason, devotion to St. Joseph has always been central to the life of the Oblates. Through him, we are led to know and love Jesus and Mary more fully. His simple, humble, and hardworking life becomes a pattern for our own service to God.
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As Oblates, we strive to imitate Joseph not only in outward virtues, but in cultivating a rich interior life. Just as Joseph lived each day in the presence of Jesus, we seek to contemplate Christ in our own lives—remaining faithful to God in the ordinary duties entrusted to us.
