Cool Catholic traditions: The blessing of the throats...

[Michie]

Today, many Catholics carry on a very old (and very cool) tradition: the blessing of the throats. Today is the Feast Day of St. Blaise and for centuries, on this day, Catholics have had a custom of blessing throats, asking for God to preserve our throats from illness.

How does the "blessing of the throats" work?

Candles to be used during the blessing.

Well, here's how it goes down: During the blessing (which usually takes place either before or after the daily Mass), the priest holds two candles tied together with a red ribbon in the form of a cross at the throat of the person seeking a blessing and prays aloud: "Through the intersession of St. Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God preserve you from throat troubles and every other evil. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Beyond that - as with any prayer - the mechanics and the effectiveness are matters of faith, and are up to God alone.



Who was St. Blaise and how did blessing throats become associated with his feast day?

Continued- Cool Catholic traditions: The blessing of the throats...

 

[Michie]

Anybody here get their throat blessed this weekend?

 

[Dylan Michael]

I did, and I'm still getting a sore throat.
Oh well, that's what I get for living in a house of 65+ guys.

 

[Chrystal-J]

I got blessed twice. Once after Friday mass and once today. I found it very peaceful and comforting.