Memorial of St. Blaise

Saint Blaise

February 3

Very little is known about Saint Blaise. The earliest mention of his life did not appear until about 200 years after his death, by the medical writer Aëtius Amidenus, who spoke of Saint Blaise’s intercessory power to help dislodge objects stuck in the throat. We know the faithful have sought his intercession for disease of the throat for centuries, a practice that continues today in  the form of the blessing of throats on his feast day. 

Tradition tells us that this is because in addition to being a bishop, Blaise was also a physician and because of the story of the miraculous healing of a child who was choking on a fish bone. 

Saint Blaise is most famously known as the patron saint of diseases of the throat. He is also the patron of wool combers and animals. 

Celebrate the Memorial of Saint Blaise by:

• Attending Mass and participating in the Blessing of the Throats at your parish.
• Praying for those who are ill and for protection from illness.
• Preparing a healthy meal such as soup and sharing some as a gift.