St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, at 365 Sixth Ave., is the oldest church in the West Village. It was built in 1834 by John Doran.
St. Joseph (circa 1st century) was Christ's stepfather. He married the Virgin Mary while she was pregnant with Christ. He worked as a carpenter, and is often portrayed as an older man. St. Vincent Ferrer, St. Teresa of Avila and Ignatius of Loyola all devoted themselves to propagandizing Joseph. Joseph is the patron of families, workers and carpenters. He is also the patron of those who desire a holy death. He is usually portrayed with Christ and Mary.
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