Saint Blaise feast day was yesterday, February 3.  St. Blaise was one of the most popular medieval saints solemnly venerated as the patron saint of sufferers from throat diseases.  Before Blaise was made bishop he was a physician possessed of wonderful healing power. Numerous miracles were also attributed to him, including the cure of diseased beasts during his refuge, thus accounting for his also being the patron saint of wild animals. He was venerated as the patron of sufferers from throat diseases in the East by the 6th century and in the West by the 9th century.   Begun in the 16th century, the Blessing of St. Blaise is a ceremony still practiced and celebrated on his feast day. Two candles are consecrated and crossed before the congregation and is touched to the throats of the faithful.

Fr Terry blessed many, many throats after Mass yesterday and today!