“Celebrating the Archangels involves drawing inspiration from their two-fold fidelity: to contemplate God, and to make Him known.”
Michaelmas, also known as the Feast of the Archangels on 29th September is a profound spiritual celebration that honors the celestial protectors and messengers, St. Michael, St. Gabriel and St. Raphael, who are mentioned by name in the Sacred Scripture.
It is an opportunity for the Catholic Church to focus on God – “Creator of Heaven and Earth, of the Visible and the Invisible Universe.”
It reminds believers of the power of divine intercession through these celestial beings and their vital role in the plan of salvation.
It is also an opportunity to meditate on how the Archangels can guide and protect the faithful in their daily lives.
Their names all end with the Hebrew suffix, “-el” meaning “God”:
Michael means “Who is like God?” He is the warrior and protector. He leads the heavenly armies against evil and defends God’s people, in their fight against Satan; to rescue souls from Satan, especially at the hour of death; to be the champion of the Jews in the Old Testament and now Christians; and to bring souls to judgement.
Gabriel means “God is my strength,” or “Power of God,” He is the chief messenger, chosen by God to deliver vital news (announcing the births of John the Baptist and Jesus, the mystery of the Incarnation.)
Raphael means “God heals,” or “Medicine of God.” The healer and guide. He assists humans on journeys and brings physical and spiritual recovery.
As we honour these three Archangels, let us call upon their intercession, seek their mediation, and trust that they will accomplish the duties they are given.
Through Michael, seek God’s protection. Through Gabriel, seek God’s revelation and through Raphael, seek God’s healing. They will not let you down.
Through this feast, believers are invited to renew their devotion to the Archangels, to seek their help in times of trials, and to remember that they are never alone on their spiritual journey, as they are there to support them at every stage of their lives, reflecting God’s mercy and love.
Through them, we celebrate all the angels in heaven, and it is an opportunity for us to meditate on their living presence in the whole history of our salvation.
Prayer to the Archangels:
Heavenly King, you have given us Archangels to assist us during our pilgrimage on earth.
St. Michael is our protector; I ask him to come to my aid, fight for all my loved ones, and protect us from danger.
St. Gabriel is a messenger of the Good News, I ask him to help me clearly hear your voice and to teach me the truth.
St. Raphael is the healing angel; I ask him to take my need for healing and that of everyone I know, lift it up to your throne of grace and deliver back to us the gift of recovery.
Help us, O Lord, to realize more fully the reality of the Archangels and their desire to serve us.
Holy angels, pray for us. Amen.
-Sherida de Souza