Saint Blaise is widely regarded as the patron saint of sore throats. In many places on February 3rd– his feast day – people gather in churches for the blessing of throats. The blessing is a sign of the people’s faith in God’s protection and love for the sick. A clue to his popularity tells that when Blaise had been captured and was on his way to prison, a boy was brought to him in danger of choking from a fishbone stuck in his throat. Blaise prayed over him and he was cured. Perhaps to fill out his healing credentials, Blaise had practiced as a physician.

We will be blessing throats after all of the masses next weekend, February 4 & 5. Using two crossed and unlighted candles, the priest (or other minister) touches the throat of each person, and recites a short prayer.