Catholic Answers Live #12612 Is There a Scriptural Basis for the Theory of St. Joseph’s Assumption? - Fr. Sebastian Walshe
Mar 2, 2026
Fr. Sebastian Walsh, Norbertine priest and author, explains theological and pastoral questions with clarity. He explores scriptural and typological reasons for St. Joseph’s assumed fate. Short segments cover Douay–Rheims translations, praying for souls in purgatory versus asking their help, clergy head coverings in Mass, offering Masses for non-Catholics, and how we know Jesus’ words in Gethsemane.
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Scripture Hints At St Joseph's Bodily Assumption
- Scripture encodes a plausible case for St. Joseph's bodily assumption through typology and prophetic foreshadowing.
- Fr. Sebastian links Joseph the patriarch, Elijah's ascent, Matthew's tomb-resurrections, and the Temple episode as a prophetic anticipation of the Paschal reunion.
Use Douay Rheims For Literal Bible Study
- Prefer the Douay-Rheims for literal English study of Scripture because it closely mirrors the Hebrew and Greek.
- Fr. Sebastian warns it's stylistically archaic and not approved for liturgical use but excellent for literal study at home.
Pray For Souls In Purgatory Not To Them
- Pray for the souls in Purgatory rather than routinely praying to them because they ordinarily lack beatific knowledge.
- St. Thomas allows extraordinary cases as miracles, but Fr. Sebastian recommends praying for their release so they can intercede effectively from heaven.