St. Blaise
Feast Day: February 3
“Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from every disease of the throat and from every other illness.” – Traditional Blessing of St. Blaise
St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, is honored for his deep faith, his healing miracles, and his courageous witness during persecution. His feast day, celebrated on February 3, is especially known for the Blessing of Throats, invoking his protection against illnesses.
A Physician of Body and Soul
Blaise was born in the 3rd century in Sebaste, Armenia (modern-day Turkey). He was known as a skilled physician, caring for both physical and spiritual needs. His reputation for holiness led the Christian community to elect him as bishop of Sebaste.
As bishop, Blaise devoted himself to prayer, preaching, and healing, both through natural remedies and miraculous intervention.
A Healer and Worker of Miracles
According to tradition, Blaise was known for his miraculous healings. The most famous story tells of him saving a boy who was choking on a fishbone. Because of this, Blaise became especially invoked as a protector against illnesses of the throat.
In addition to healing people, legends say that even wild animals came to him for care and blessing, recognizing his holiness.
A Martyr’s Witness
During the persecution under Emperor Licinius, Blaise was arrested for refusing to deny his Christian faith. Despite torture and imprisonment, he remained steadfast in his love for Christ.
Blaise was eventually beheaded around 316 A.D., giving his life as a martyr for the faith.
The Blessing of Throats
On his feast day, it is traditional in Catholic churches for priests to perform the Blessing of Throats, using two crossed candles placed near the throat while praying for protection from illness, especially diseases of the throat.
This beloved tradition reflects both Blaise’s miraculous healing and the Church’s trust in the intercession of the saints.
Patron of Throat Illnesses and the Sick
St. Blaise is the patron saint of those with throat diseases, physicians, veterinarians, and wool combers, a reflection of both his profession and the tools used in his martyrdom.
A Witness to Healing, Courage, and Faith
St. Blaise’s life reminds the faithful that God’s grace can bring healing to both body and soul and that courage in the face of suffering is a powerful witness to Christ. His intercession continues to be sought for protection, healing, and strength.
St. Blaise, pray for us!
