Epiphany Catholic School, a Christ-centered environment,

is dedicated to developing the whole child through academic excellence

and nourishing servant leaders in the footsteps of Jesus.

Blessing of the Throats

On Monday, February 5, 2024, Deacon Michael Watts blessed the throats of students, faculty, and staff in the tradition of Saint Blaise. Saint Blaise is the patron Saint of wild animals, sufferers of the throat, and wool combers. His feast day is February 3.

Bishop Blaise was martyred in Armenia (modern-day Turkey) in 316. Bishop Blaise was a doctor who was known as the “Physician of Souls.” Although people

could worship freely during this time, persecution was abundant for Christians.

Bishop Blaise moved to the safety of the back country where he lived and prayed in solitude as a hermit. It is said that wild animals such as wolves, lions, and bears would surround him while he prayed.

Bishop Blaise was eventually imprisoned for his faith. While on his way to prison, a mother came upon him with her young son who had a fish bone stuck in his throat. The child coughed up the bone upon Blaise’s command.

“Saint Blaise is often depicted holding two crossed candles in his hand, or in a cave with wild animals. He is also often shown with steel combs. The similarity of the steel combs and the wool combs made a large contribution to Saint Blaise's leadership as the patron saint of wool combers and the wool trade.”

https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=28

Thank you, Deacon Michael, for the beautiful blessing of Saint Blaise.