James Martin, SJVerified account

First, sexual abuse is a crime. Any comparison between the loving relationship that existed between Mary and Joseph and sexual abuse, or sexual harassment, is monstrous, even blasphemous. /2

Second, despite the familiar artistic representations, we have no idea of the ages of Mary and Joseph at the time of their betrothal and marriage. The Gospels do not specify this, other than to call Mary a "parthenon" (in Greek, either a young woman or a virgin). /3

Joseph is often depicted in art as older than Mary, in fact, considerably older, so as to make him seem less "sexualized," and to emphasize Mary's virginity. But, in fact, both Mary and Joseph could have been the same age. /4

Again, using the relationship of Mary and Joseph to, in any way, excuse or legitimize the sexual abuse or sexual harassment of a minor, or anyone, is monstrous. /5

Finally, any comparison to Jesus, the sinless one, in terms of "persecution" is wrong. As my novice director once told us, "Just because people oppose you doesn't mean that you're like Jesus, or even that you're like one of the prophets. It may just mean that you're wrong." 6/6