The School of Nazareth: A Spiritual Journey with St. Joseph

by Mark Hartfiel

"The Holy Family is the beginning of countless other holy families." - Pope John Paul II.

There is a beautiful tradition in the Church that St. Joseph lived on the Earth with Jesus and Mary for thirty years. Thirty years to adore the face of Our Lord and Savior, thirty years to contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation, and thirty years to be a true father. Joseph experienced a life that no man in history can parallel. Joseph knew Jesus and Mary intimately. Not only that, in many mysterious ways, he led them. Join St. Joseph for this 30-day journey and you will discover how to become a man after God's own heart!

Genres: Religion

102 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 29, 2016

Reviews

[Maxwell Thornton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great 30-day programme for Catholic men both young and old to embody godly manhood, as shown by St Joseph.

The author cited scripture and personal testimonies on topics, left prayers that encapsulate the lesson at the end of each day, and invited the reader to contemplate questions on how to improve your journey to be a better man. For me, I learned a lot and am thankful for this resource, looking forward to putting these lessons into practice.

I recommend this book to all Catholic teenagers, young men, husbands, and fathers.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible 30-day meditation on how to turn your home into a "little Nazareth," a "school of love" that will change the world.

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

The work is particularly compelling in its approach to masculine spirituality. Hartfiel demonstrates how St. Joseph represents an authentic model of masculine virtue - characterized by protective love, humble service, and unwavering faith. He challenges contemporary notions of masculinity by presenting Joseph as a tender, courageous guardian who leads through gentle strength and profound spiritual wisdom.

Drawing from rich theological traditions and personal insights, the book illuminates St. Joseph's quiet yet powerful spiritual presence. Unlike many spiritual texts that emphasize dramatic revelations, Hartfiel celebrates the sanctity of everyday commitment, humility, and silent devotion embodied by Jesus's earthly father.

Structurally, the book's 30-day journey provides a methodical yet deeply personal pathway for spiritual growth. Each section is carefully designed to progressively deepen the reader's understanding of Joseph's spiritual landscape, offering reflective prompts, scriptural insights, and practical applications for daily living. The book is a transformative guide that invites readers to reimagine their spiritual journey through the quiet, profound example of St. Joseph - a testament to the power of faithful, humble service.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had some really great meditations on the life of Joseph. There were a couple days, however, that they were short and looking at the week ahead that weren't very helpful. They seemed like an effort to stretch this out a little longer. While it's not my favorite book on St. Joseph (that would be Fr. Marie-Dominique Philippe's "Mystery of Joseph"), it is definitely a worthwhile read and a great introduction on why St. Joseph is an important figure for every husband and father.

[Rebecca Matula Tait · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple yet Powerful

Great little book to increase my relationship with St. Joseph. I highlighted so many powerful thoughts and statements, of which I’ll return.