“Virtue” is a very simple concept to define. As vice is a bad habit, so virtue is a good habit. “A virtue is an habitual and firm disposition to do the good” (CCC 1803). Virtues and vices form a person’s “character.”

Why are virtues important?

Without personal virtue, we will do good only sporadically. The main source of a good and happy life – for the human race, for each nation and community, and for each family – is the personal virtue of each individual. No system or set of laws, however perfect, can work for good without virtuous individuals. Nothing can improve the world the way a saint does!

Character matters. A lot.
Who we are is more important than a job title, a large income, physical appearance, how much we have, where we live, and who we hang out with - all the things the world tells us to value. Who we are determines how we act in challenging circumstances.

St. Joseph knew all about challenging circumstances. As a man of virtue, though, he showed exceptional character in how he responded to things beyond his understanding.

We can learn from him, and in becoming more attuned to his life, we can grow in virtue ourselves.