Deliver Us From Evil

The Memorial of St. Blase, Bishop and Martyr, patron of those with ailments of the throat and other illnesses, reminds us that the need for physical healing is always on the table. Our own aches and pains daily remind us that like an old Ford Truck, rust sets in and parts "give out."  The pandemic Coronavirus has set the world into near panic, as the stock market in China suffers and affects other markets and has taken a big bite out of airline travel.  Mental illness abounds and depression from job loss, or a sudden death leave people in psychological chains analogous to the Gerasene in today's gospel. (Mk 5:1-20) We asked St. Blase to heal us from throat and other illnesses this morning as part of an ancient tradition; he worked miracles in his lifetime, saved a boy choking on a fish bone, for example, and makes us aware that praying for healing works. May we pray with faith to God through the intercession of St. Blase or our favorite saints for the gift of healing.
Bro. Rene