The following parishes, schools and entities of the Archdiocese of New Orleans will host St. Joseph Altars for the feast of St. Joseph on March 19. The tradition, which is Sicilian and Roman Catholic in origin but is carried on locally by Italian-Americans and people of all nationalities and faiths, includes baking cookies and cakes and preparing foods for the altar. The offerings accompany petitions to St. Joseph or are expressions of thanks for favors granted. 

ST. JOSEPH CHURCH AND SHRINE, 610 Sixth St., Gretna: Altar in the gymnasium, 7th and Newton streets. Prepared by St. Joseph Women’s Club. March 18, public viewing only, 6-7:30 p.m.; March 19, 10 a.m. Mass, Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond, presiding, followed by blessing, then meals served from noon until 6 p.m.