All are invited to a special celebration honoring the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker on Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche in St. Augustine. This diocesan-wide event is part of the 2025 Jubilee Year declared by Pope Francis, who has called Catholics everywhere to live as Pilgrims of Hope.
The day begins at 8 a.m. with a multicultural procession, celebrating the diversity of our Catholic community. A Mass will follow, then remarks from Father Erlin García, IIC, rector of the Shrine, who will offer a reflection on the sacred history of the Mission Nombre de Dios. Attendees will then pray the Official Jubilee Prayer in multiple languages, joining voices and hearts in a sign of unity and shared purpose.
The event will feature a keynote by Nancy Rivera, former Bilingual Advisor for National Engagement at Catholic Relief Services (CRS). A passionate advocate for social justice, Rivera supports national partnerships and promotes programs that uplift vulnerable communities. Her presentation, rooted in personal testimony and faith, will highlight the connection between Catholic social teaching and the vocation of work.
Participants will hear testimonies from members of different cultural communities, enjoy live music and join in small group conversations on the virtues of St. Joseph.
Central to the day will be a personal commitment inspired by St. Joseph, inviting participants to reflect on the dignity of their daily labor. Together, those gathered will affirm:
In light of my Catholic faith, with St. Joseph as my guide, I commit to:
- Provide, protect and prepare myself and my family, responsibly and with diligence.
- Uphold the teachings of the Church in how I live my life and how I interact with others—in love, compassion and mercy.
- Value the dignity and worth of each person.
Lunch will be provided. Also, a multilingual rosary will be led by the Sisters of St. Joseph at 1:15 p.m.
This Jubilee celebration is a beautiful opportunity for families, workers and parishioners of all backgrounds to reflect on the meaning of work and faith. As Pope Francis reminds us, “Work is more than a way to make a living. It is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation.”
For more information, contact Norma Garcia at ngarcia@dosafl.com or (904) 262-3200, ext. 108. Come celebrate, commit and be renewed in faith and purpose.
