On September 29, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Archangels: Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel, and Saint Raphael. These three heavenly messengers appear in Sacred Scripture, each entrusted with a unique mission from God. Together, they remind us of God’s constant care, protection, and guidance in our lives.
Saint Michael the Archangel
Michael is known as the great defender of God’s people. In the Book of Revelation, he leads the heavenly armies in battle against the powers of evil. For this reason, he is often called the “Prince of the Heavenly Host.” Catholics have a long tradition of asking for his intercession through the prayer, Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, trusting in his protection from the snares of the devil.
Saint Gabriel the Archangel
Gabriel is the great messenger of God’s saving plan. He is most famously known for appearing to Mary at the Annunciation, proclaiming that she would be the Mother of Jesus. Gabriel’s role reminds us that God often speaks to us through His messengers and that we are called to be open to His word and respond with faith, just as Mary did.
Saint Raphael the Archangel
Raphael appears in the Book of Tobit, guiding young Tobiah on a journey, offering protection, healing Tobit’s blindness, and bringing peace to his family. Raphael’s name means “God heals,” and he is often invoked as a patron of travelers, the sick, and those seeking healing of body, mind, or spirit.
Living the Feast
The Archangels remind us of God’s active presence in our daily lives—protecting, guiding, healing, and strengthening us. On their feast day, we can honor them by praying the Prayer to Saint Michael, reading the stories of the Archangels in Scripture, or asking their intercession for our families, our Church, and our world.
May Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael intercede for us and help us walk faithfully with the Lord each day.