The Feast of the Espousal of Mary and Joseph is traditionally celebrated on January 23. While it is not universally recognized in the Church’s liturgical calendar, it holds special significance in many Marian-focused communities, particularly among the Carmelites. This feast honors the sacred union of Mary and Joseph, highlighting their obedience, humility, and trust in God’s divine plan.
One of the most vivid accounts of the espousal comes from the mystical visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich. A 19th-century German nun, stigmatist, and visionary, she received detailed revelations about biblical events, including the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Family. Though her visions are not considered dogma, they have inspired countless Catholics with their rich imagery and spiritual insights. Her account of the espousal of Mary and Joseph offers a beautiful reflection on their divinely guided union.
The Espousal of Mary and Joseph: A Vision
In Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich’s visions, the espousal of Mary and Joseph is described with extraordinary detail and reverence. Below is the verbatim account from her recorded visions:
"Joseph was three or four years older than Mary. He was a grave, mature young man, silent and deliberate. Joseph was of middle height and extraordinarily handsome, and he bore a striking resemblance to Jesus. He was fair-skinned, had reddish hair, and wore it short. His face was long and slightly thin, but a delicate red shone through the clear white of his complexion. His whole appearance was so exceedingly pure that one felt sure that he had never experienced the least sensual emotion. He had large, beautiful eyes, and his demeanor was very quiet and devout.
Mary, the temple virgin, was led by the priest into the room where the candidates were assembled. The priest held her hand and announced to all that he who was found worthy of receiving the virgin of the Lord as his bride would be made known to him by a sign. The suitors, of whom there were many, held their rods upright before them. A sign was to appear on the rod of the chosen one.
Mary’s demeanor was grave and quiet. She wore a long white dress embroidered with gold, and over it a long mantle of sky-blue adorned with golden stars. Her hair was arranged modestly under a transparent veil, and she wore a wreath of white silken flowers interwoven with little green leaves.
The priest handed Joseph a dry branch which blossomed into a beautiful lily as soon as he grasped it. The other suitors murmured and refused to acknowledge the miracle, but Joseph was silent and devout. He received Mary humbly and resignedly as the bride chosen for him by God."
This miraculous sign, a blossoming lily on Joseph’s staff, symbolized divine confirmation of God’s will for their union. Mary and Joseph, though betrothed in a simple and humble ceremony, were united in a holy bond that became the foundation of the Holy Family.
The Perpetual Virginity of Mary and Her Espousal to Joseph
One of the central dogmas of the Catholic Church is the perpetual virginity of Mary, which affirms that Mary remained a virgin before, during, and after the birth of Jesus. This belief highlights her unique role as the Mother of God and emphasizes the divine origin of Christ.
Mary’s perpetual virginity is deeply tied to her espousal to Joseph. Their union was not based on physical intimacy but was a holy and pure partnership established to fulfill God’s plan. Joseph, as a righteous and devout man, accepted Mary’s unique vocation and vowed to protect her virginity, ensuring the sanctity of their marriage.
Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich narrates a touching moment where Mary openly shared her desire for perpetual virginity with Joseph. Here is an excerpt from her visions:
"When Joseph became aware of Mary’s desire to remain a virgin, he was at first troubled and unsure. But Mary spoke to him with great gentleness, saying: ‘Joseph, my spouse, I have vowed to the Lord to remain a virgin. Would you be willing to accept this? Our union will be one of mutual support, and together, we will fulfill God’s will.’
Joseph, moved by her purity and humility, replied, ‘Mary, I too have always desired to live in chastity. I will honor your vow and protect your virginity as the treasure of the Lord.’"
This profound conversation underscores the depth of their holy partnership. Their mutual commitment to chastity exemplifies the highest form of love—one rooted in self-giving, sacrifice, and obedience to God.
The blossoming lily on Joseph’s staff in Emmerich’s vision is a powerful symbol of this purity and divine approval of their union. Together, Mary and Joseph demonstrated that a marriage consecrated to God could transcend earthly desires and become a vehicle for His divine purpose.
Conclusion
The Espousal of Mary and Joseph, as seen through the eyes of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich, is a powerful testament to the beauty of a union centered on God’s will. Their holy marriage, rooted in purity and mutual support, serves as an enduring model for families today, calling us to embrace trust, humility, and faith in God’s plan for our lives.
As we reflect on this feast, let us ask for the intercession of Mary and Joseph, that they may guide us in our own vocations and help us to grow closer to Jesus.