Our ability to speak is a powerful gift from God. Our Lord tells us we are accountable for everything we say, so we must choose wisely – for the damage ill-chosen words can do to our own souls and others is often deeper than we expect. Even though words can condemn, tarnish, reprimand and admonish, they also build up the kingdom when used to pray and praise, teach and comfort, inspire and forgive as well as to speak out against injustices and spread the Gospel. When the priest prays the words of consecration during Mass, humble bread and wine become the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In short, words matter. Honor this God-given gift with three February saints.
Catholics around the world celebrate the Feb. 3 feast of St. Blaise (Feb. 11 in the Eastern Church), a 4th-century bishop dedicated to increasing the spiritual and physical health of his people in Armenia. Legend has it that a mother came to St. Blaise with her young son who had a fish bone lodged in his throat. At the saintly bishop’s command, the child coughed up the bone. For centuries, Catholics have honored the feast of St. Blaise by having their throats blessed by a priest to help protect them from diseases of the throat. Two candles are blessed, held slightly open, and pressed against the throat as the blessing is said. Many parishes in the Diocese of Charlotte hold these blessings. Call your parish office or check the bulletin for details.