On February 3, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of St. Blaise, a bishop and martyr who is revered as the patron saint of those suffering from illnesses of the throat. St. Blaise was a 4th-century bishop of Sebastea, Armenia, known for his holiness, healing miracles, and steadfast faith. He was martyred for his faith during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Licinius.
One of the most well-known legends of St. Blaise involves his miraculous intervention to save a young boy choking on a fishbone. This act of mercy and healing led to his association with throat ailments and the practice of invoking his intercession for protection and healing.
The Blessing of the Throat
A unique tradition on the Feast of St. Blaise is the Blessing of the Throat, a sacramental of the Church. During this rite, a priest holds two crossed candles (often tied with a red ribbon, symbolizing St. Blaise’s martyrdom)
near the throat of each individual and offers this prayer:
"Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from every disease of the throat and from every other illness. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
This special blessing serves as a reminder of God's care for our health and well-being and invites us to seek His protection and grace.
Celebration at St. Mary Parish
At St. Mary Parish in National City, we will honor St. Blaise with a Blessing of the Throat during the 8:00 AM Mass on his feast day, Monday, February 3, 2025. We invite all parishioners to join us in this beautiful tradition of faith and healing.
Let us come together to seek the intercession of St. Blaise for our spiritual and physical health, trusting in the Lord's infinite mercy and love.
Comments