S Blaise, and the Blessing of Throats

Blessing of Throats

Following Mass on Sunday, you are welcomed and encouraged to receive a blessing of the throat.

The Church celebrates the fourth century bishop and martyr S Blaise on 3rd February.  Blaise lived in what is now modern day Turkey.  One particular legend associated with him was the healing of a small child who was choking on a fish bone.  As a result, S Blaise is the patron saint against ailments of the throat. 

As well as being the patron saint against ailments of the throat, S Blaise is also patron of infants, animals, builders, stonecutters, the wool industry, vets, amongst others, and of the cities of Salerno, Maratea, Dubrovnik, and Bradford.

Photo – S Blaise, Dubronik (A Woods)