Saint Joseph’s pedagogy in the light of the apostolic exhortation “Redemptoris custos”

Abstract

Standards imposed by the contemporary world and the consumerist attitude of man lead to the situation in which people are not willing to make an effort to shape the attitude characterised by maturity, responsibility and integrity. Hence we need well-known and respected role models. One of them is exemplified in the life of the Patron of the Church – Saint Joseph, who meets the demands of the contemporary crisis that exists in marriage, family and society with his attitude of faith and trust in God. This is a much needed role model, particularly in the light of the wide-spreading so called neohumanism, which results in people abandoning not only Christianity but also any other form of religion.

In Redemptoris Custos, apostolic exhortation which presents St. Joseph and the mission he had in Christ’ life, St. John Paul II points out to the educational methods used by the earthly father of Jesus, and sets them as an example to be followed by contemporary husbands and fathers. St Joseph shows us the beauty of the path of simplicity, humbleness, work and love, he bears the testimony to married life and concern for women. He presents us with the beauty of fatherhood and struggle to defend the life of a child. He is also the role model of taking responsibility for religious life. His actions create an exceptional pedagogy, realised by silent teaching. Its examples can be seen not only in the Bible but also in the documents of the Church, papal teaching and in the opinions expressed by Christian writers.

The Carpenter of Nazareth is an excellent example for teachers. He proves that they do more than just teach their students. He shows us that also teachers can learn from their students whose personalities and characters they shape. This means that we learn all our lives, and constantly grow and thrive in our humanity.