On September 29, we celebrate the Feast of the Archangels, Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. But who is Saint Michael the Archangel, and Saints Gabriel and Raphael?
Each of these Angels are mentioned by name in the Scriptures. St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael were all three sent by God to the people as messengers and protectors.
Saint Gabriel is seen in the Old Testament book of Daniel when he was sent to Daniel to help give him understanding (Daniel 9:21). He is also the one sent in the Gospel of St. Luke, announcing to Zechariah the birth of St. John the Baptist (Luke 1:11), along with announcing the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26).
Saint Raphael is mentioned in the book of Tobit (Tobit 3:17). He was sent to help Tobiah on his journey. He is also attributed as the Angel who would stir up the waters of the healing pool in the Gospel of St. John (John 5:7). His name means “God heals”.
The name Michael means “Who is like God?”, and was the battle cry in the battle fought in heaven when Saint Michael led the good Angels in victory against Satan and his followers (Revelation 12:7). The book of Daniel calls him one of the chief princes (Daniel 10:13) and the great prince and guardian of the people (Daniel (12:1).
Saint Michael is the protector of the Church. He defended many in the Old Testament and still defends us today. He protects the Church at large, but also is the protector of every individual Christian.
[Related Content: How Saint Michael Helps You]
The St. Michael prayer was written by Pope Leo VIII (964-965) after he had an experience. This snippet is taken from a small booklet titled, “St. Michael the Archangel”.
It is a good read to learn more about St. Michael. It is published by Tan Books and Publishers, Inc:
It is said that one day, having celebrated the Holy Sacrifice, the aged Pontiff was in conference with the Cardinals. Suddenly, he sank to the floor in a deep swoon. Physicians who hastened to his side feared that he had already expired, for they could find no trace of his pulse. However, after a short interval the Holy Father rallied and, opening his eyes, exclaimed with great emotion: “Oh, what a horrible picture I was permitted to see!” He had been shown in spirit the tremendous activities of the evil spirits and their ravings against the Church. But in the midst of this vision of horror, he had also beheld consoling visions of the glorious Archangel Michael, who had appeared and cast Satan and his legions back into the abyss of Hell.
The Saint Michael Prayer
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into Hell Satan and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
The St. Michael prayer is a good prayer for all to pray. We especially have a great need in our times for St. Michael’s powerful protection. We are very fortunate to have such a great advocate. St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle!
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