This church has an amazing history. Apparently in West Jordan, there were displaced miners, immigrants and their families. They were in need of a church to reinforce their sense of community, have a place to worship and call home. Due of the lack of funds, these hard workers and laborers built the church themselves. It wasn't just manpower, but man, woman and children power! History does repeat itself. This story is identical to some of those found
As someone who also has a new church, I was excited for this pilgrimage visit, for I already felt a connection. St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church is easy to locate and it's on a main road, Redwood Road to be exact. Arriving early was a good idea and gave me a chance to walk around, talk to parishioners and take photos. Just outside church is a large courtyard with plenty of umbrella covered tables and chairs. There is a large fountain and a day chapel at the other end.
Many parishioners came up and talked to me; they must have known that I was a visitor. I found the parishioners that I met were very eager to offer church history and information on the symbols found inside. Yes, there is a reason for everything and it's just a matter of opening your eyes and mind to your surroundings. One man in the foyer of the church told me that the murals around us showed the history. He also mentioned that there are twelve windows inside the church and each with a different color that reflects a different apostle.
After speaking to the kind people it was time to venture inside and take more photos before it was too late. Before I could grab the door, a nicely dressed usher opened the door for me and greeted me. (What a nice touch and welcome.) Once inside, my eyes went all over, but they stopped at the Baptismal Font straight in front of me. It was simple, serene and peaceful - a bit of Heaven. As I gazed around the walls I noticed the windows and each color given to them. They gave the church a soft glow. Above the altar is an enormous skylight that acts as if were shining down God's beam to bless the altar Himself. St. Joseph the Worker has a special spot in the church, as if he were coming to celebrate mass. The Tabernacle is to the right of the altar in a little area that exuded a sense of equanimity. The choir and piano can be seen on the left. Also to the left and built into the back wall is a very colorful Prayer Candle Lighting area. After mass there are refreshments to enjoy and many people to meet.
What I take away from this pilgrimage stop is that faith, love, history, color and symbols play an important part of St. Joseph the Worker Parish. It was a pleasure to visit St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. The hospitality I received is a tribute to the parish. May God's blessings be bestowed upon you, and may His presence illuminate your mind, heart and soul.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord, and not for yourselves. Remember that the Lord will reward you; you will receive what He has kept for his people. For Christ is the real master you serve. -(Silent Reflection)- Just people shall blossom like lilies. They shall flourish forever in the courts of our God. - (Colossians 3:23-24)