29/09/2023
29th of SEPTEMBER | Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, & Raphael, Archangels
These biblical messengers signify God's transcendence and loving care:
St. Michael (Who is like God?") is the Archangel who fought Satan. He is the protector of all people and reminds the faithful of the real existence of the Devil and demonic activity. He is invoked for protection from the snares of the Devil. He is the patron of security forces and of the sick.
St. Gabriel ("Strength of God") announced to St. Zechariah the birth of St. John the Baptist and to the Blessed Virgin Mary the birth of Christ. His greeting to Our Lady, "Hail, full of grace," is one of the most familiar and frequent prayers of the Church. He is the patron of telecommunications and postal service.
St. Raphael ("Medicine of God") is the Archangel who cared for Tobias on his journey. Every person on his or her pilgrimage through this life also has a guardian angel. He is the patron of travelers and the blind.
This feast is popularly called as "Michaelmas."
PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, pray for us!
