St Blaise was bishop of Sebaste (now the city of Sivas in central Turkey, in the then Roman province of Armenia-Cappadocia). He was martyred in 316 AD.

According to tradition, St Blaise was a physician before becming a bishop and that on his way to prison, a boy was brought to him in danger of choking from a fishbone stuck in his throat. St Blaise prayed over him and he was cured. 

Blessing of throats

On Saturday 3 February, the blessing of throats will take place after the 10am and 12 noon Masses. This blessing is a sign of our faith in God’s protection and his love for the sick.

Using two crossed and unlit candles, the priest (or other minister) touches the throat of each person, saying:

Through the intercession of Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from all ailments of the throat and from every other evil: + in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

More information here.