St. Joseph High School, in honor of its namesake, set up a special table, or altar, to remember him last week. This was done in accordance with the Feast of St. Joseph, which is traditionally held within the Catholic Church on March 19. As the husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus, St. Joseph is widely recognized as the patron saint of the Universal Church, families, fathers, workers, and a happy death
The tradition of St. Joseph Tables originated in Italy during a period of drought and famine, with people praying to him for relief. When the rains returned and the crops prospered, the Sicilians, in gratitude, organized a feast to honor him.
A table was covered with food which was shared with everyone, especially the less fortunate. Fava beans, which were said to have sustained the Sicilians during the famine, became a staple on such tables. They were called "lucky beans" and were seen as a symbol of God's provision and a reminder of the intercession of St. Joseph. A book about them could be seen on the left side of the high school's table, along with fruits, homemade rolls, and cookies baked by students from the school's Food Preparation class. There were also canned goods and non-perishable food items donated for the community's needy. St. Joseph High School science and food prep teacher, Ms. Jackie Elsinger, was primarily responsible for organizing the project.