Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia, martyred in the fourth century. On his feast many receive the blessing of throats.
Life
Blaise was a bishop of Sebaste in Armenia who is known to have been martyred during persecution in the early fourth century. He has long been honored in both East and West, but few facts about his life are known for certain.
Later tradition says he saved a child who was choking on a fishbone through his prayer. From this story comes the custom of the blessing of throats on his feast, with two crossed candles held to the throat. He is honored as patron of those suffering from throat ailments.
Spirituality
The spirituality in Blaise's tradition is a shepherd's compassion that reaches out to those who suffer. He is remembered as a bishop who prayed for the sick even amid danger, and in his name the Church still asks for healing of body and soul. The blessing given in his name is a sign that God cares even for the aches of our daily life.
Reflection
When we receive the blessing of throats, we can ask for healthy speech as well as a healthy body. Words can wound, and words can heal. Are the words I speak today life-giving to others?