St Blaise was a physician who eventually was ordained a bishop in the 4th Century and he worked hard to encourage the spiritual and physical health of his followers. His protection of those with throat ailments comes from a story of a woman whose son had a fish bone lodged in his throat. The woman brought her son to St Blaise who instantly healed him just as the boy was on the point of death.

This Friday, February 3rd on the Feast day of St Blaise the Blessing of Throats takes place in Derrinturn Church at 9.30am Mass. Traditionally two candles are blessed, crossed over and pressed against either side of one’s throat as a blessing is said.