St. Joseph, the Holy Family, and Discernment of Heresy

Catechism Lesson Recap: St. Joseph, the Holy Family, and Discernment of Heresy

St. Joseph being tempted to Disgrace the Theotokos

From the Bottom left corner of the Nativity Icon

In today’s catechism lesson, we began with a thought-provoking discussion about a novel heterodox icon of the Holy Family, which some have called “heretical.” This sparked an important conversation about the distinction between actual heresy and well-intentioned mistakes. Here’s a recap of the topics we covered:

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Understanding Heresy vs. Mistakes

Before diving into the lesson, we clarified what constitutes heresy. True heresy involves deliberate deviation from the foundational truths of the Orthodox faith as revealed by God, often accompanied by an unrepentant refusal to align with Church teaching. However, not all theological errors or artistic missteps rise to the level of heresy. Many well-intentioned individuals can make mistakes due to misunderstanding or lack of proper catechesis.

This distinction is crucial in fostering a spirit of discernment and humility, allowing us to approach such issues with clarity and charity, rather than condemnation.

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The True Role and Age of St. Joseph

We then examined the Eastern Orthodox understanding of St. Joseph, emphasizing his role as the betrothed guardian of the Theotokos and protector of Christ. Unlike Western depictions that often show him as a young man, Orthodox tradition portrays him as older widower with six children from a previous marriage.

This depiction supports the Orthodox understanding of his relationship with Mary as one of betrothal, not a conventional marriage, and highlights his obedience to God’s will in serving as her protector.

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Betrothal and Marriage in the New Testament

The discussion then shifted to Joseph’s righteousness in response to discovering Mary’s pregnancy. Under Mosaic law, he could have exposed her as an adulterer, which would have subjected her to death. Instead, his sense of justice was tempered with mercy, and he resolved to divorce her quietly.

It was through the intervention of the angel in a dream that Joseph learned the truth: “Do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20). This moment underscores Joseph’s faith and humility, as he aligned himself with God’s plan despite the immense responsibility it entailed.

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Why the Angel Spoke in a Dream

We reflected on why the angel appeared to Joseph in a dream rather than directly. Dreams provide a means of divine communication that protects God’s plan from being intercepted by the devil, who cannot read human thoughts. This subtle yet profound detail reminds us of God’s wisdom in safeguarding the mystery of the Incarnation.

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A Monastic Tale: Testing the Spirits

To illustrate the importance of discernment, I shared the story of a novice monk who believed he was receiving daily lessons from his guardian angel. When he confided in his elder, the elder proposed a test: the angel should reveal what the elder had fixed in his mind. If it were truly an angel of God, it would discern the elder’s unspoken thought. If it failed, it would reveal itself as a demon masquerading as an angel of light.

The “angel” failed the test, unveiling its demonic nature and attacking the novice. The elder defended him, battling the demon in hand-to-hand combat. This cautionary tale highlights the necessity of humility, discernment, and seeking the guidance of spiritual elders in matters of faith.

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Daily Advice for Catechumens

I concluded the lesson with this practical advice:

1. Go to church faithfully. Participation in worship strengthens and nurtures your faith.
2. Say your prayers daily. Prayer connects you to God and centers your spiritual life.
3. Read your Bible regularly. Scripture is the foundation of your understanding of God’s Revelation.
4. Avoid self-righteousness. Pride can lead to spiritual delusion; stay humble and seek God’s grace in all things.

From the Ladder by St. John Climacus

“Some people living carelessly in the world put a question to me: “How can we who are married and living amid public cares aspire to the monastic life?” I answered: “Do whatever good you may. Speak evil of no one. Rob no one. Tell no lie. Despise no one and carry no hate. Do not separate yourself from the church assemblies (Liturgy). Show compassion to the needy. Do not be a cause of scandal to anyone. Stay away from the bed of another, and be satisfied with what your own wives can provide you. If you do all this, you will not be far from the kingdom of heaven.”