Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael

Today is the Feast of the Archangels, Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel, and Saint Raphael

The Archangel Michael's name means "Who is like God?" and reflects his role as a warrior Angel, defending against both spiritual and earthly adversaries. Michael's role as the defender of the Church is prominent, having fought against Satan and his forces throughout history. He's often associated with the "Angel of the Lord" in the Old Testament, who acted as God's legate to the Israelites, guiding and protecting them. Michael's appearances and interventions have been reported over the centuries, with notable instances at Mount Gargano and the Michaelion shrine near Constantinople. In liturgical practices, Michael is invoked for protection and is seen as leading departed souls to heaven. The well-known prayer to St. Michael is a condensed form of Pope Leo XIII's exorcism against evil spirits. While St. Michael isn't a human saint, he holds a special place as a powerful angelic leader and protector of humanity. His responsibilities include combating Satan, guiding souls to heaven, defending Christians and the Church, and calling people to judgment. While Scripture provides limited information about him, his significance remains strong in Christian devotion, symbolizing divine protection and the battle against evil.
 
Michael is the patron saint of  grocers, soldiers, doctors, mariners, paratroopers, police, and sickness.

The Archangel Gabriel, whose name signifies "Man of God" or "Strength of God," is a prominent figure in both the Old and New Testaments. His missions and manifestations are closely tied to the coming of the Messiah. One of his notable prophecies is found in the book of Daniel, accurately predicting the timing of Christ's arrival, interpreting his visions. . Gabriel's most notable task is conveying the news of the Incarnation to the Virgin Mary. With grace and wisdom, he reassures Mary, explaining that the Holy Spirit will bring about her pregnancy without violating her vow of virginity. Mary's humble consent marks a pivotal moment in human redemption, and Gabriel departs to share the news with the other angels. He later visits Zacharias to announce the birth of John the Baptist and Mary to announce the birth of Jesus. Gabriel's involvement continues after Christ's birth. He likely informs the shepherds about Jesus' arrival, and he strengthens Christ during the agony in the garden. Gabriel also announces the Resurrection and may have future roles, including heralding Christ's second coming. His attributes include being depicted with a lily, trumpet, lantern, and more. He's associated with the Annunciation scene, often holding a trumpet symbolizing the Lord's return.

Gabriel is the patron saint of  messengers, telecommunication workers, and postal workers.

The Archangel Raphael, whose name means "God heals," is one of the seven Archangels who stand before the Lord. His identity is most prominently mentioned in the Book of Tobit in the Old Testament. In this story, Raphael appears in the form of a human named Azarias and accompanies Tobias, the son of Tobit, on a journey. Throughout the story, Raphael's healing powers become evident. He assists Tobiah in safely entering into marriage with Sarah, who had previously been afflicted by the demon. Raphael's guidance and intervention result in the healing of Tobit's blindness and the restoration of his sight. The narrative emphasizes the harmony between the heavenly and earthly realms, where Raphael's interventions bring about blessings and healing. His role as a healer, guide, and protector resonates with the significance of his name, reflecting God's healing and benevolent presence in the lives of those he assists. While Raphael's name is not mentioned in the New Testament, there is a reference in the Gospel of John to an angel who stirs the waters at the pool of Bethesda, known for its healing properties. This angel's actions bear similarities to the healing role attributed to Raphael in the Book of Tobit.

Raphael is the patron saint of travelers, the blind, and bodily ills, happy meetings, nurses, physicians and medical workers.

Find prayers to each of the archangels online at https://nolacatholic.org/septemberresources.