Origin & history
The Feast of St. Joseph has deep roots in Maltese Catholicism, introduced by the Knights of St. John who brought devotion to St. Joseph to the islands. In 1524, the Knights established a church dedicated to St. Joseph in Rabat (Gozo), and the feast grew in prominence. Pope Pius IX declared St. Joseph patron of the universal Church in 1870, further cementing its importance in Malta, where it became a public holiday.
Historically, Malta was a predominantly agricultural society, and St. Joseph, as a carpenter and provider, resonated with the working class. The feast offered a respite during Lent, a period of fasting, allowing families to celebrate with food and communal activities. The date, March 19, was already a traditional feast in the West since the Middle Ages, and Malta adopted it with local adaptations.
Customs & traditions
In Malta, the Feast of St. Joseph involves religious services including processions carrying a statue of St. Joseph through parishes, especially in Rabat (Gozo) and Birkirkara. Many families set up a special altar at home with a statue of St. Joseph, surrounded by candles and flowers. Traditional food includes qagħaq tal-ħobż (St. Joseph’s bread rings) and figolla (almond pastry), as well as lentil soup and fish to abstain from meat.
A unique Maltese tradition is the 'L-Istrina ta' San Ġużepp' (St. Joseph's Alms), where offerings of money or food are collected for the poor. In some villages, children dress up as St. Joseph or Mary, and models of St. Joseph's workshop are displayed. The day is also popular for weddings and baptisms, symbolizing family blessings.
Why it is celebrated
For Maltese people, the Feast of St. Joseph honors the saint as a model of fatherhood, humility, and hard work—values central to Maltese culture. It also marks a pause during Lent, allowing communities to come together in celebration and charity.
The feast underscores the importance of family and social welfare, with almsgiving reflecting Malta's strong Catholic tradition of caring for the needy. It reinforces national identity through shared rituals and culinary heritage, linking modern Malta with its agrarian and religious roots.