March 19: The Feast of St. Joseph, husband of Mary, patron of the Universal Church

St. Joseph is remembered as the humble and patient, just and protective, gentle and chaste spouse of Mary, Jesus' foster father on earth. He is the head of the Holy Family; poor in worldly terms of possessions, but rich in grace and virtue.

St. Joseph was the 'breadwinner' of the Holy Family. Through his work as a carpenter, he provided for his family and protected them. In some Catholic Churches, the altar is decorated on this day with fancy loaves of bread.

Make some DECORATIVE BREAD TWISTS (a.k.a. 'BOUNCY BREAD') in honour of St. Joseph's 'breadwinning' role and the delicate work of the carpenter.

Roll out pretzel or bread dough into a flat piece. Cut 1/4 inch strips of dough. Wind each strip of dough loosely around a wooden chopstick or shish-kebob skewer.

Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet and brush with a beaten egg mixture or milk (or spray with low-fat cooking oil). Sprinkle with coarse salt or sesame seeds and spices. Bake according to pretzel recipes.

Gently remove the chopsticks or skewers after allowing the bread to cool slightly.

Wash the chopsticks and skewers and allow them to air-dry for the next use.

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