The opening of a contemporary art exhibit and the annual celebration of a patroness’ feast day were signs of a typically busy December at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.
On Dec. 7, Archbishop José Gomez introduced (and flipped on the lights of) the “Haute Sphere” contemporary interpretation of the Nativity scene in its U.S. debut. Conceived by award-winning architect Sylvain Dubuisson and crafted by French porcelain manufacturer Bernardaud, the interior of the geodesic dome “manger” is comprised of 48 triangular plaques, stars and the “halo” (representing the Christ child) all in hand painted or engraved porcelain.
And early on Dec. 12, Archbishop Gomez presided at the traditional “Ma√±anitas” Mass in honor of the 480th anniversary of the apparitions of the Virgin of Guadalupe. The Feast Day celebration began at 4:30 a.m. with a procession of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe through the Cathedral Plaza accompanied by Aztec dancers, followed by the liturgy attended by more than 2,500 worshippers despite the rain.
This week, the Cathedral will hold its annual Christmas Concert (Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m.) with the Cathedral Choir and the Los Angeles Symphony Orchestra conducted by Hyun Sang Joo. This year’s program will feature the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah,” as well as selected Christmas favorites. Tickets are available through the Cathedral: (213) 680-5200.
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