The Traditional Blessing of Throats will take place after the Noon Mass on Monday, February 3 at St. Elizabeth Church. Anyone wishing to participate in this blessing should approach the communion rail after the Mass on that afternoon.
St. Blaise is known as the patron saint of throat ailments. This blessing is believed to offer protection against throat diseases and other maladies.
During the blessing, two candles are crossed over the throat of the person receiving the blessing. The Priest holds the candles while praying:
“Through the intercession of Saint 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.”
The candles used are often blessed on Candlemas (February 2nd), which adds to the significance of the ritual. Candles in Christian liturgy often symbolize Christ as the light of the world, but in this context, they also recall St. Blaise’s miraculous deeds and his own martyrdom (he was tortured with wool combs, hence the candles' wax might symbolize this connection). The crossing of candles over the throat mimics the sign of the cross, invoking divine protection.
Born in Sebastea, Armenia (modern-day Sivas, Turkey), St. Blaise was a bishop in the early 4th century. His medical knowledge and miracles during his life contributed to his patronage of throat ailments. His martyrdom under the Roman Emperor Licinius further solidified his status as a saint. One of the most famous legends about him involves him saving a child from choking on a fish bone, which is why he became associated with the healing of throats.
The St. Blaise throat blessing encapsulates a rich tapestry of faith, tradition, and community in Catholic practice. It serves not only as a spiritual safeguard but also reinforces personal faith in divine care. Join us on February 3 for this traditional blessing!