Home/Stay Informed/All Diocesan Articles

All Diocesan Articles

Candles, Prayers, and Healing: The Blessing of Throats Explained

Posted on January 28, 2025 in: Reflections

Candles, Prayers, and Healing: The Blessing of Throats Explained

Each year on February 3, the Feast of St. Blaise, Catholics come together for the beautiful and unique tradition of the Blessing of Throats. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder of God’s care for us — both body and soul.

St. Blaise, a 4th-century bishop and martyr, is known for a pretty amazing story. One day, he saved a young boy who was choking on a fishbone. This miracle led to his reputation as the patron saint of throat ailments. Over the centuries, people have turned to him for help with illnesses, trusting in his intercession and God’s healing power.

During the Blessing of Throats, the priest or deacon holds two candles crossed near your throat, praying: "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. Amen." It’s a short but meaningful moment, one that connects us to the Church’s rich traditions and reminds us that God cares about every part of our lives— even our sore throats!

This blessing isn’t just about physical health. It’s a chance to put our worries in God’s hands and trust in His love and protection. In a time when so many are navigating tricky waters, this tradition is a gentle nudge to remember we’re never alone. God is always with us, offering comfort and peace. God is always with us, offering comfort and peace.

As St. Blaise’s feast day approaches, take a moment to reflect on the ways God shows up in your life—through the saints, the sacraments, and the everyday blessings we often overlook. Whether you’re hoping for healing, strength, or just a little extra reassurance, the Blessing of Throats is a beautiful way to connect with God’s endless love and care for you.

By Andrea DePaola
Four County Catholic


Most Viewed Articles of the Last 30 Days

Candles, Prayers, and Healing: The Blessing of Throats Explained
Each year on February 3, the Feast of St. Blaise, Catholics come together for the beautiful and unique tradition of the Blessing of Throats. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder of God’s care for us — both body and soul. St. Blaise, a 4th-century bishop and martyr, is known for a pretty amazing story. One day, he saved a young boy who was choking on a fishbone. This miracle led to his reputation as the patron saint of throat ailments. Over the centuries, people have turned to him for help with illnesses, trusting in his intercession and God’s ...

Read More

Archbishop Coyne Reflects on the Baptism of the Lord: "Don't Ever Apologize for Being Catholic"
This past Sunday, Archbishop Christopher Coyne, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Norwich, delivered an inspiring homily at the Baptism of the Lord Mass. In his message, he urged the faithful to embrace their identity as Catholics with confidence and joy, reminding them, "Don't ever apologize for being Catholic." Archbishop Coyne drew meaningful connections between the baptism of Jesus and our own call to live as beloved children of God. He reflected on the feast's profound significance, encouraging the community to proclaim the Good News boldly...

Read More

The Four Loves and Our Faith

Posted on February 05, 2025 in: Reflections

455

The Four Loves and Our Faith
As we turn the calendar toward Valentine’s Day, our thoughts are often drawn to images of romantic love — heartfelt exchanges, sweet moments with loved ones, and a world draped in pink and red. Yet, C.S. Lewis invites us to broaden our understanding of love beyond romance alone. His book The Four Loves is a profound meditation on the complex, nuanced nature of love, dividing it into four distinct categories: affection, friendship, romantic love and charity. Each offers us a different glimpse into the heart of God and provides a pathway toward living a fuller, mo...

Read More

Celebrating the Four Loves with Children

Posted on February 04, 2025 in: Reflections

152

Celebrating the Four Loves with Children
Valentine’s Day fills our children’s world with hearts, sweets and fun, but it also offers us a chance to teach them about love through our faith. Instead of focusing only on romance, we can use this holiday to explore love’s many dimensions, helping our children grow in their understanding of true, faith-centered love. The Simple Love of Family (Storge) Affection, or storge, is the love we find in the day-to-day moments shared with family. Remind your children that love isn’t just grand gestures; it’s in the small acts of care we show ...

Read More

Annual Catholic Appeal

ACA DONATE

English

Español

 

Latest Articles
Pope Francis Names New Bishop for the Diocese of Norwich
Bishop-elect Reidy Pledges Outreach and Healing in First Public Remarks
A New Chapter Begins: Bishop-Elect Reidy’s First Mass in the Diocese of Norwich
Prayers for Priests and Deacons
5 Fascinating Facts About the Apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes
Mass Attendance Ticks Back Up Nationally After Pandemic Falter, Data Suggests
St. Teresa of Calcutta Added to Church Calendar as Optional Memorial
'The Image of Christ' - Hope and Faith Video Series
Recently Added Galleries
Click to view album: 40 Days for Life 2024
Click to view album: Blessing of the Fleet 2024
Click to view album: Mass of Ordination for Fr. Eric Carl Hosmer, Fr. Julian Felipe Cuervo-Lozada and Fr. Alexander James Pandolfe
Click to view album: Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (NDCCW) 46th Annual Layette
Signup for Weekly Newsletter

     

    Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich
    201 Broadway
    Norwich, CT 06360-4328
    Phone: 860-887-9294