This coming weekend the Pagosa Springs Catholic Community will be celebrating Candlemas at its three regularly scheduled Saturday and Sunday Masses.
Rich in tradition, Candlemas is a yearly Christian ceremony that is celebrated 40 days after Christmas and signifies the conclusion of the Christmas season. Recognized by a variety of Christian faiths, the celebration commemorates the presentation of Jesus and Mary’s purification at the temple in Jerusalem.
Candlemas marks the return of light, protection and prosperity given to humanity through the coming of Jesus Christ.
Parishioners and guests are encouraged to bring candles to be blessed, which will serve as a reminder throughout the year that Jesus Christ is the “Light of the World.”
Candlemas will be held at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church this Saturday, Feb. 1, at 5 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 2, at 9 a.m. There will also be an 11:15 a.m. Sunday Candlemas at Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Unrelated, but also entailing candles, is the “Blessing of the Throat.” A special Mass will be held on the Feast Day of St. Blaise, the patron saint of throat ailments, at 8 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 3. During the Mass held at Pope John Paul II Catholic Church, attendees will have an opportunity to have their throats blessed.
Pope John Paul II Catholic Church is located at 353 S. Pagosa Blvd and Immaculate Heart of Mary is at 455 Lewis St.
For more information, visit Ihmjp2.org.
