Hundreds of Romans Celebrate St. Joseph’s Solemn Feast Day with a Procession Through the Streets of San Giuseppe al Trionfale Parish in Rome

On March 19, 2025, Rome came alive with vibrant celebrations in honor of St. Joseph, drawing hundreds of people to participate in events organized by the Parish Basilica of St. Joseph al Trionfale.

The occasion marked the solemn feast day of St. Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Procession Through the Streets

One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the St. Joseph’s procession that wove its way through the streets of Rome and the surrounding neighborhood.

With joyful hearts, participants from the Parish of San Giuseppe al Trionfale joined the procession, a tradition that has become a staple of the feast day’s festivities.

A Nine-Day Novena Leading Up to the Feast

The festivities didn’t start on March 19 but rather on March 9, with a vigil Mass at the parish.

This Mass kicked off the novena, a nine-day period of prayer and devotion that continued through March 18, leading to the culmination of the feast.

The novena was an important spiritual preparation for this special day dedicated to St. Joseph.

Display of Relics for Public Veneration

For this jubilee year, an extraordinary display of sacred relics took place at the Basilica of St. Joseph al Trionfale.

From March 16 to March 19, the relics of St. Joseph’s cloak and the Virgin Mary’s veil were available for public veneration.

This rare opportunity to honor such cherished artifacts drew many faithful pilgrims.

The History Behind the Relics

The relics displayed at the parish have a fascinating history. It is believed that these sacred items, belonging to the parents of Jesus, were hidden in the Basilica of Sant’Anastasia near the Circus Maximus for more than 1,600 years.

These relics were brought to Rome by St. Jerome in the fourth century, preserving an important piece of Christian heritage.

A Day to Remember

The celebrations continued throughout the day, with spectators watching the procession and taking part in the spirit of devotion that filled the streets.

It was a beautiful moment for both locals and visitors to honor St. Joseph and reflect on his role in the Holy Family.