St. Joseph Cathedral in downtown Baton Rouge will observe the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord -- also called Candlemas -- at all Masses this weekend, February 1-2.
This feast, occurring 40 days after Christ’s Nativity, commemorates the day that Mary and Joseph, following Jewish custom, brought Jesus to the Temple to present him.
Following popular practice on this feast day, the Rev. J. Cary Bani, cathedral rector, will bless the candles used at every Mass throughout the year. In addition, he will bless candles brought to Mass by parishioners and friends from their homes.
Mass times are 4:00 pm Saturday, February 1, and 8:30 am and 10:30 am Sunday, February 2. All are welcome to participate by bringing candles used for prayer and reflection from their homes to receive the blessing.
Also this week, Father Bani will offer a Blessing of the Throats for all attending the Noontime Mass on Tuesday, February 4. St. Blaise, whose feast day normally falls on February 3, is the patron saint of diseases of the throat and medical specialists who treat ear, nose, and throat ailments.
The Cathedral is located at 401 Main Street. For more information, contact the Parish Office, (225) 387-5928.