MARIA STEIN – The Maria Stein Shine of the Holy Relics will celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph with a special feast day Mass at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 19. Traditionally, Catholics have honored the foster, or earthly, father of Jesus on this day. They meditate on the life of St. Joseph in a special way this year, as Pope Francis has invited the universal church to deepen its devotion to this quiet and hard-working man by proclaiming it the “Year of St. Joseph.”

The Rev. Dan Schmitmeyer, director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, will celebrate the Mass. The evening will include a special blessing for the fathers in attendance. The Shrine’s extensive relic collection includes a small piece of his tunic, which will be set out for veneration. After Mass, all are invited to enjoy desserts at St. Joseph’s table. This custom acknowledges the sweetness of St. Joseph’s life, symbolically, through the presentation of delicious sweet treats. Everyone is invited to this special feast day!

The Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics provides faith nourishment and spiritual renewal through opportunities for prayer and pilgrimage and inspiration from the lives of the saints. People from around the world visit the shrine to explore and enjoy this environment rich in holiness and history. The Shrine is located at 2291 St. John’s Road in Maria Stein. For more event information, visit www.mariasteinshrine.org.