St Joseph of Arimathea was a rich man who lived in Jerusalem at the time of Jesus’ crucifixion. He donated his own prepared tomb for the burial of Jesus’ body. He is described in the Gospels as, “An honourable counsellor” (Mark 15:43) “waiting for the Kingdom of God” and a disciple of Jesus. (Matthew 27:57)
St Joseph’s actions were bold. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Once the soldiers permitted it, he and Nicodemus removed it from the Cross, wrapped it in fine linen, applied the myrrh and aloes that Nicodemus had brought, and transported it to the prepared tomb.
St Joseph’s Feast Day is either 17th March (West) or 1st August (East). He is the Patron Saint of Funeral Directors.
St Joseph of Arimathea:
Pray for us that our hearts will not be troubled by the burdens of this life; instead, that we will place all our trust in Jesus.
Glory be to the…
