The Feast of St. Blaise is 3rd February. St. Blaise is the patron saint for sore throats and sick cattle.

St. Blaise was a bishop and martyr who lived in the fourth century in Turkey and Armenia. For a time, Blaise lived in a cave to escape persecution. On his feast the church recalls a miracle cure associated with him and celebrates the blessing of the throats. Blaise apparently saved the life of a boy who was choking on a fish bone. The saint said that anyone who lit a candle in his memory would be free of infection, thus candles are used in the traditional throat blessing. He is listed among the Fourteen Holy Helpers, saints revered as healers. He is the patron saint of throat illnesses, animals, wool combers, and wool trading.

Throats will be blessed after 8.00am and 10.30am Masses at St. John’s Church.