February Feasts and Facts

February Feasts & Facts
 
Sunday, February 2 is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord Jesus in the Temple. It commemorates Simeon’s famous prophecy that Jesus would be a “light of revelation to the Gentiles.” It is also known as Candlemas since it is the day that candles are blessed for use throughout the Church year. This year, the traditional blessing of candles to be used at home will take place during the 8:00 AM Mass. Parishioners are invited to bring the candles they will use at home this year to Mass and place them on the table near the altar for the blessing.
 
Monday, February 3—The church remembers   St. Blaise.  Good Shepherd will celebrate the sacramental blessing of the throats at all Masses.  Since the 8th century St. Blaise has been invoked on behalf of the sick, especially regarding disease or illness of the throat.