Biography of st blaise

Unfortunately, what is known about the life of St. Blaise derives from various traditions. His feast day is celebrated in the East on February 11 and in the West on February 3 (although it was observed on February 15 until the 11^th century).

All sources agree that St. Blaise was the Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia who suffered martyrdom under Licinius about the year 316. (Remember that Emperor Constantine had legalized the practice of Christianity in 313, but Licinius, his ally and co-emperor who had concurred in legalizing Christianity, betrayed him and began persecuting the Church.

Constantine defeated Licinius in 324.)   From here, we rely on the tradition which has been associated with our liturgical celebrations over the centuries, which does not necessarily preempt their veracity or accuracy.

In accord with various traditions, St.

Blaise was born to rich and noble parents, and received a Christian education. He was a physician before being consecrated