Patron of Those with Throat DiseasesThe blessing of throats, invoking the intercession of St. Blase, has become a very popular devotion. St. Blase devoted the early years of his life to the study of Philosophy and afterward became a physician. He was ordained to the priesthood and made Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia, where he was seized and carried off to prison by Agricolous, the Governor.
As the Saint was led away, a distracted mother whose child was suffering from a disease of the throat implored his aid. At his intercession the child was cured, and since that time his aid has often been solicited in such cases. After cruel tortures the Saint was beheaded about the year 320. He is listed as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
The priest in giving the blessing of St. Blasé holds two candles in the form of a cross touching the throat, and prays that through the merits and intercession of St. Blase the person blessed may be delivered from throat disease and from every other evil.
PRAYER: Lord, hear Your people through the intercession of St. Blase, Your Martyr. Help us to enjoy peace in this life and find a lasting refuge in the next. Amen.