Edited by Mary Cresp. Published by ATF Press, 2021. Reviewed by Michael Mahoney

The idea for the book is interesting — 21 writers contributing a reflection on Saint Joseph. The writers are Sisters and Associates of the Sisters of St Joseph. Most are based in Australia, but a few are from other Pacific or Asian countries. Some shine a very different light on a figure whom we all thought we knew.

Journeying with Joseph arrives at an opportune moment. The year 2021 is dedicated to St Joseph by Pope Francis, who also wrote a quirky and insightful Apostolic Letter Patris Corde about Mary’s husband. It’s easy to forget — if we ever knew — that St Joseph is patron of the universal Church.

With Joseph as inspiration, there are thoughtful pieces on the stresses that displaced people face today. Too many end up feeling adrift not only in their country of origin, but also in their new culture. For the vast majority of us who have never been displaced, these are thoughtful insights. Some stories remind us that we Christians are custodians of a revolution.

The challenge when writing about Joseph is not to cloak his story in piety, meekness and mild-manneredness. Journeying with Joseph is a powerful tool to avoid doing that. I thoroughly recommend this book for restless seekers.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 264 October 2021: 31