“We even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope.” Romans 5:3-4

I remember as a child that we would always go to church on the Feast of St. Blaise.  I’m not sure that I understood then why the priest held those candles into my neck.  There was also the blessing, not always enunciated completely. 

“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.”

It’s become more important to me in the 18+-years as a Deacon as I’ve offered those words countless times. Trying also to be gentle as the crossed candles go toward the necks of those receiving the blessing.

The Franciscan Saint of the Day entry for February 3 notes that we know more about the devotion to Blaise, than the saint himself.  They repeat the story of how St. Blaise saved a young child choking on a fish bone.

St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans (in bold above and below) gives us much to ponder when we consider sickness or “affliction.”

“And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts” Romans 5:5

St. Blaise, please pray for us!

Peace,

Deacon Tom