St. Blaise

St. Blaise was born in Armenia to a rich Christian family. Details of his early life are scarce, but he grew up to be a bishop. During his reign, Christians in Armenia were persecuted. He received a message from God to go into the hills and escape persecution. While in the hills, he discovered a cave of sick wild animals and cured them. His actions were discovered, and he was put on trial. While traveling to his trial, he saved a pig that belonged to a poor woman from being eaten by a wolf. She mercifully brought him food in prison until he was killed. St. Blaise is the patron saint of wild animals and those with throat maladies, stemming from a story that St. Blaise healed a boy who had a fish bone stuck in his throat. His feast day is February 3.

Through the intercession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from ailments of the throat and from every other evil. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” — Blessing of St. Blaise

Questions for Reflection

St. Blaise took special care of the animals he encountered. How do you care for animals, whether household pets or neighborhood wildlife? How could you treat these creatures better?

Tip: This week, volunteer at your local animal shelter, or watch your neighbor’s pet while they are at work.