and a "Virtual" St. Joseph Altar at
Saint Joseph
Information on St. Joseph's Table and Altars.
This last year or two, many people have e-mailed me requesting information on St. Joseph's Table, St. Joseph's Altars, as well as on the Cord of St. Joseph.
I will give only very basic details here – BUT – I will give you all the internet addresses I have found that deal with these particular things.
The St. Joseph's Table and Altar.
Sometime, round about the middle ages, there was a drought in Sicily. The people of Sicily turned to St. Joseph and asked him to stop the drought. St. Joseph answered their prayers and the people of Sicily set about preparpng a feast in which everyone was invited, including the poor. It is this kindness that continues today. This is how March 19 became such a special day to the Sicilians and the Italians. St. Joseph is a patron saint to many and he is recognized by having two feast days: March 19 for Joseph the Husband of Mary and May 1 for Joseph the worker.
This feast is held in a special way. The main food is all prepared and set on a table. In the same room is also erected an altar with a statue of St. Joseph making the center piece. Flowers are also displayed round the room. In some cases children are dressed up to portray the Holy family and sometimes the angels. When all are gathered around, a priest will bless the Altar and table and all those present.
Information on the Altars
can be found at
and a "Virtual" St. Joseph Altar at
This Virtual site also allows you to "make a Virtual Offering" It is well worth a visit.
Another site well worth a
visit is
this gives the background of the tradition. (Its now 21st
March so I am bit late putting this site up here – but better
late than never!!)
A lot more information can be found from the following web site.
Information on the Italian Culture with reference to
St. Joseph's Altars and tables is at
Celebrate the Feastday at
A Clebration at Easter for St. Joseph with the Polish
American community
Recipies.
The food usually cinsists of several special dishes. A main one is known as "Sfinge"
In Russia "Blini" are served with sour cream, and in Sweden a bun with cream and butter and bits of marzipan.
Recipies can be found at the
Directory. Other receipies are at
My page on the Cord of St. Joseph is reached
There is also a page on the
If you have more information please let me know and include any web sites that you know of. Thanks
