Feast of the Archangels: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael
Feast Day: September 29
“Bless the Lord, all you His angels, mighty in power, executing His word.” – Psalm 103:20
The Feast of the Archangels, celebrated on September 29, honors the three great archangels named in Sacred Scripture: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael. These heavenly messengers have been entrusted by God with special missions in the history of salvation, each serving as a protector, guide, or bearer of God’s message.
Messengers of God’s Power, Healing, and Guidance
The word “archangel” means “chief messenger”, signifying their important roles in God’s divine plan. The archangels are servants and ministers of God, carrying out His will and assisting humanity.
- St. Michael is the leader of the heavenly armies, the defender against Satan and the forces of evil. He appears in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 12:7-9) leading the angels in battle against the dragon, symbolizing Satan. He is the patron saint of police officers, soldiers, and those who fight against evil.
- St. Gabriel is the messenger of God’s announcements, most notably bringing the news of the Incarnation to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-38). Gabriel also appeared to Zechariah to announce the birth of John the Baptist. He is the patron of messengers, communication workers, and those who spread the Word of God.
- St. Raphael is the angel of healing, featured in the Book of Tobit, where he heals Tobit’s blindness and guides Tobiah on his journey (Tobit 12:15). He is the patron of travelers, the sick, doctors, and healers.
A Feast Rooted in Scripture and Tradition
Devotion to the archangels has been part of the Church’s tradition from its earliest centuries. Originally, St. Michael had his own feast day, but in 1970, the Church combined the celebrations of all three archangels into one feast on September 29, highlighting their united service to God and humanity.
The feast reminds the faithful that the spiritual realm is real, that angels are active in God’s plan, and that the forces of good are stronger than the forces of evil.
Heavenly Protectors for the Church
The archangels continue to play an important role in the life of the Church and the world. They serve as protectors, guides, and bearers of God’s mercy and justice. Their presence reminds the faithful of God’s care and the help He provides through His heavenly servants.
A Reminder of God’s Providence
The Feast of the Archangels invites all Christians to call upon the protection and assistance of these great heavenly beings and to remember that they are part of God’s providence and care for the world.
Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, pray for us!