On Friday, February 3, we celebrate the feast of Saint Blaise, venerated as the patron of those who suffer from diseases of the throat. We pray in a special way for protection from afflictions of the throat and from other illnesses. The blessing of Saint Blaise is a sign of our faith in God's protection and love for us and for the sick. Here at St. Michael, we will have a blessing of the throat after each daily Mass on February 3.