I find it fitting our internet is finally up and running for the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.
Why do I find it fitting?
Because today is absolutely one of my most favorite feast days on the liturgical calendar!
Every September 29th, the Catholic Church celebrates three pretty awesome creatures – the only three angels known by name in Scripture!
I have always loved St. Michael, the Archangel. All images depicting him display him wielding a sword, ready to strike down Satan at every turn – he is, in my opinion, God the Father’s right hand angel.
In the Book of Revelation, we hear about all the powerful things Michael the Archangel gets to do, in order to glorify God. Rumor has it (meaning I read this as a kid in some saint book long ago discarded), Satan tried to recruit Michael, and was scared away by Michael’s vehement denial of pride and arrogance (some reasons Satan fell from grace).
St. Michael also holds a special place in my heart because he is the Patron Saint of Soldiers (and policemen). Since I am an Army BRAT, married to an Army soldier, and have brothers and cousins who wear a soldier’s uniform, St. Michael is often asked to safeguard and protect my loved ones during their military missions.
Even though I’ve always loved Michael the Archangel, I honestly never knew there was a day dedicated to honoring the allegiance and unwavering fidelity he and his fellow Archangels display toward Our Creator. I understand at one point, it was a special day only recognizing Michael the Archangel, and is still commonly referred to as Michaelmas in Catholic circles.
Also, for a time, every Catholic Mass used to conclude with the following prayer:
Prayer to Saint Michael, the Archangel
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 hosts, 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.
(Translation provided by EWTN)
However, it wasn’t until I started making my way back to the Catholic faith that I found out there was a feast day associated with St. Michael.
Knowing that I love this feast day so much, I am astounded by my unwillingness to make a big splash about it in my house. We typically attend Mass, since I took to heart the words of St. Maximilian Kolbe, “If angels could be jealous of men, they would be so for one reason: Holy Communion.”
Therefore, our goal today is to attend Mass, to receive something I know is a gift specifically designated for humans.
Because, at the end of the day, and my life, when all is said and done, I want to look back and recognize within my family, and more importantly within myself, the unique attributes these Archangels possess: loyalty, duty, selfless service, and an intense, immense love for God.
Michael, the Archangel, Pray for us.
Gabriel, the Archangel, Pray for us.
Raphael, the Archangel, Pray for us.
I’m pretty sure it was a previous Pope (sorry, I forget who) who decreed we should be saying that prayer as he had a vision of what was to come. It’s powerful, we should be saying it more. Happy Michaelmas xxx
Yes, Andrea! I think it was Pope Leo XIII? It is a relatively new prayer (given the age of the Church), but I read somewhere that the recitation of the prayer stopped being common practice after Vatican II, but I can’t guarantee that is accurate. Our current chapel does pray it at the conclusion of every Mass, and I am so glad I learned the prayer a couple years ago.
Thank you for commenting! And, Happy Michaelmas to you and your family as well!
I like this post….it reminds me of so much….the prayer to St.Michael and the litany of the Saints. Where has that stuff gone?
It’s still around! It’s alive and well in the chapels I have attended the past few years. And, it’s alive and well in the hearts and homes of many, many families I know.
I’m so glad you liked this post – thank you for your comment!