On December 8, 2020, the 150th Anniversary of the proclamation of Saint Joseph as Patron Saint of the Universal Church, Pope Francis issued the Apostolic Letter "Patris Corde" ("With a Father’s Heart") as an extended reflection of the holy foster father of Jesus and spouse of Mary. He shared, “Saint Joseph devoted himself as a father in varied ways: beloved, tender and loving, obedient, accepting, creatively courageous, working, and “in the shadows.” 

Because of Pope Francis’ deep devotion to Saint Joseph, he also announced on December 8 that the Church would be celebrating a Year of Saint Joseph, “which would take place for one year up to December 8, 2021. This is to be a special year with a special focus of the Church’s prayers and activities devoted to Saint Joseph. This year can also be a special year for those in need of Saint Joseph’s healing intercession in their relationship with their own father. It will be a year of discovery and growth for all. ("Church Grants Plenary Indulgence for the Year of Saint Joseph," ... [https://www.vaticannews.va/…/pope-francis-proclaims-year-of…]

There will be prayer experiences, liturgies, special activities and local pilgrimage sites named throughout the eight counties in the Diocese of A/J. There will also be many opportunities to gain Plenary Indulgences during the year according to the norms of the Church..."

- 2021, Diocese of Altoona/Johnstown Liturgy Committee, Liturgy Office, Mary, Mother of the Church Pastoral Center, 2713 W. ChestnutAvenue,Altoona,PA. 16601

--Parish Bulletin, Feb. 28, 2021