But what if Jesus’ family connections were as influential as ecclesiastic fervor in setting the course for a new religion?

THOMAS: Is that Joseph? What's he doing? TEACHER: Joseph was a carpenter. That’s someone who makes things from wood. A young Jesus comes to help Joseph. TEACHER: As a boy Jesus was known as the ...

The statement continues: "Shortly after the birth of Jesus, Joseph and Mary were forced to flee with their young son from Nazareth to Egypt to escape King Herod, a tyrant. They feared persecution ...