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St. Blaise, a 4th-century bishop and martyr, is one of the most well-known saints in Christian tradition, particularly for his association with healing throat ailments. His life is shrouded in both history and legend, but he is widely venerated in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and Anglican Communion. As a bishop of Sebastea in Armenia (modern-day Sivas, Turkey), he was known for his miraculous healings, compassion for animals, and unwavering faith during times of persecution. His feast day, February 3rd, is still celebrated worldwide, particularly through the Blessing of the Throats, a tradition in which priests invoke his intercession to protect people from illnesses.
Quick Facts about St. Blaise
Here is a quick facts about the St. Blaise:
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | St. Blaise (also spelled Blasius) |
| Born | Late 3rd century, Sebastea, Armenia (modern-day Sivas, Turkey) |
| Died | 316 AD, Sebastea, Armenia |
| Cause of Death | Martyrdom (beheaded after torture) |
| Feast Day | February 3rd |
| Venerated In | Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion |
| Canonization | Pre-congregation |
| Patron Saint Of | Throat ailments, physicians, animals, wool combers, respiratory diseases |
| Major Miracle | Healed a boy choking on a fishbone |
| Symbols | Two crossed candles, iron comb, bishop’s mitre, wild animals |
| Major Devotion | Blessing of the Throats on February 3rd |
| Relics and Shrines | Dubrovnik (Croatia), Rome (Italy), Germany, France |
| Persecutor | Governor Agricolaus under Emperor Licinius |
| Famous Legend | He healed and protected wild animals that sought his help |
Early Life and Background
St. Blaise was born in Sebastea, Armenia, likely in the late 3rd century. While details about his early life are scarce, tradition holds that he was a physician before becoming a bishop. His deep compassion for the sick and suffering made him well-respected, and his healing abilities, both physical and spiritual, led many to believe he was specially chosen by God.
As Christianity spread, so did persecution, particularly under the Roman Emperor Licinius. Despite the dangers of being a Christian leader, Blaise was elected bishop of Sebastea, where he served with great devotion and courage.
Historical Context: Christianity Under Roman Persecution
During St. Blaise’s time, Christianity was still facing persecution under the Roman Empire. Although Emperor Constantine had granted tolerance to Christians in the Edict of Milan (313 AD), his co-emperor Licinius continued to persecute believers in the eastern provinces, including Armenia. Many bishops, priests, and laypeople were arrested, tortured, and executed for their faith.
As a bishop, Blaise openly defied Roman authorities by continuing to preach and care for his Christian flock, which ultimately led to his arrest and martyrdom.
Major Achievements, Works, and Miracles
St. Blaise was widely recognized for his miraculous healings, which were not limited to humans—he was also known for his kindness toward animals. One legend recounts how he healed sick and injured wild animals, and in return, these animals came to him for protection.
The Miracle of the Choking Boy
The most famous miracle associated with St. Blaise is his healing of a young boy who was choking on a fishbone. As the story goes, the boy’s mother brought him to Blaise in desperation. The saint prayed over the child and made the sign of the cross over his throat, immediately healing him.
Because of this miracle, St. Blaise is invoked as the patron saint of throat ailments, and his intercession is sought for protection against illnesses, especially of the throat and respiratory system.
Challenges and Struggles
St. Blaise’s life was not without hardships. As a bishop during intense Roman persecution, he constantly risked his life to guide and protect his flock.
Eventually, he was arrested by Roman soldiers under the orders of the local governor, Agricolaus. Even in captivity, he continued to work miracles, healing fellow prisoners and even animals that were brought to him.
Before his execution, he was brutally tortured—beaten and raked with iron combs (tools used for carding wool, which tore his flesh). Despite this suffering, he refused to renounce his faith. Finally, he was beheaded in 316 AD, becoming a martyr for Christ.
St. Blaise’s Role in the Church and Society
St. Blaise played a significant role as both a spiritual leader and a healer. As a bishop, he provided guidance to persecuted Christians and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their faith.
His reputation as a protector of the sick and a defender of animals has continued throughout Christian history. Many people invoke his name for healing, particularly for throat-related illnesses.
Canonization and Recognition as a Saint
St. Blaise was canonized in the pre-congregation era, meaning he was venerated as a saint before the formal canonization process was established by the Church. His widespread veneration across both the Eastern and Western Christian traditions solidified his status as a saint.
Legacy and Impact on the Church and the Faithful
St. Blaise’s legacy remains strong today, particularly due to the Blessing of the Throats on his feast day, February 3rd. This tradition stems from the miracle of the choking boy and is performed in many Catholic churches worldwide.
During the Blessing of the Throats, a priest holds two crossed candles near a person’s throat and prays:
"Through the intercession of St. 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. Amen."
His legacy is not only about physical healing but also about spiritual strength and faithfulness in the face of trials.
Relics, Shrines, and Devotions
Relics of St. Blaise are venerated in various locations across Europe. One of the most famous shrines dedicated to him is in Dubrovnik, Croatia, where he is regarded as the city's patron saint. His relics are also kept in Rome, Germany, and France.
Statues and paintings of St. Blaise often depict him holding two crossed candles or an iron comb, symbolizing his miracles and martyrdom.
Feast Day and Celebrations
Feast Day: February 3rd
St. Blaise’s feast day is widely observed with the Blessing of the Throats in Catholic churches. In
some countries, special processions and prayers are held in his honor.
In Dubrovnik, Croatia, where he is the patron saint, his feast is celebrated with a grand procession, prayers, and festivities that date back centuries.
Patronage and Symbols
Patron Saint of:
- Throat ailments and illnesses
- Physicians and healers
- Animals
- Wool combers and wool traders
- Those suffering from colds and respiratory diseases
Attributes and Symbols:
- Two crossed candles (used in the Blessing of the Throats)
- An iron comb (symbolizing his torture and martyrdom)
- A bishop’s staff and mitre (representing his role as a bishop)
- Wild animals at his feet (symbolizing his kindness toward animals)
Prayer to St. Blaise for Protection and Healing
O glorious St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, you healed the sick and performed miracles in Christ’s name. We ask for your intercession today, especially for those suffering from throat illnesses and other diseases. Protect us from harm, and help us to remain strong in faith as you did, even in the face of trials. May your prayers bring us healing, peace, and strength. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer for St. Blaise Intercession
