Your Go-To Guide for the 3 Archangels: Handy Facts Every Catholic Should Know
The Church celebrates the feast of the Archangels on Sept. 29.
According to EWTN,
“The Sacred Scriptures have revealed the proper names of only three angels, all of whom belong to the Choir of the Archangels. The names are well known to all, namely: Michael, Gabriel, Raphael.”
Since these archangels are in heaven, we affectionately refer to them as saints.
Here is a brief synopsis of each of the archangels, followed by special prayers for their intercession!
Note: The Church does not permit proper names of angels not found in the canonical books of the Bible. Read more here.
Who is Michael the Archangel?
Saint Michael the Archangel is the most popular of the Archangels. He is often depicted decked out in armor, holding a sword and crushing the head of a serpent.
Saint Michael the Archangel is mentioned multiple times in scripture. His most notable battle is described in the book of Revelation, where he defeats Satan and casts the fallen angels out of Heaven. In the Old Testament, he aids the prophet Daniel (Daniel 10:13).
The name, Michael, means “Who is like God?”
Saint Michael the Archangel is invoked during times of physical or spiritual danger. He is called on for protection against evil in all things and is considered a great defender of Christ’s Church on Earth.
Saint Michael the Archangel is the patron of many, including first responders, soldiers, and those needing special protection.
Saint Michael Prayer
Saint 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, cast into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Who is Raphael the Archangel?
Saint Raphael the Archangel is mentioned in the Old Testament in the book of Tobit.
According to EWTN,
“In the book of Tobit, one of the deuterocanonical books of the Bible, Saint Raphael travels with a man named Tobias, with the archangel presenting himself as Tobias’ relative. Saint Raphael eventually helps Tobias in two ways. First, he releases a young woman, Sarah, from spiritual bondage. She was married seven times, and a demon killed each husband on their wedding night. Tobias eventually marries Sarah, with Saint Raphael’s help. Also, Saint Raphael helps restore the sight of Tobias’ father, Tobit, who had become blind.”
Because of his role in Tobias' life, Saint Raphael is invoked by those seeking spiritual or physical healing. His intercession is also sought after by singles discerning the vocation of marriage.
The name, Raphael, means “Divine Healer.”
Saint Raphael the Archangel is the patron saint of travelers, healthcare workers, blindness, matchmaking, and the sick.
Prayer to Saint Raphael, Angel of Happy Meetings
O Raphael, lead us towards those we are waiting for, those who are waiting for us! Raphael, angel of happy meetings, lead us by the hand towards those we are looking for! May all our movements, all their movements, be guided by your light and transfigured by your Joy.
Angel guide of Tobias, lay the request we now address to you at the feet of Him on whose unveiled face you are privileged to gaze. Lonely and tired, crushed by the separations and sorrows of earth, we feel the need of calling to you and plead for the protection of your wings, so that we may not be as strangers in the province of Joy, all ignorant of the concerns of our country.
Remember the weak, you who are strong--you whose home lies beyond the region of thunder, in a land that is always peaceful, always serene, and bright with the resplendent glory of God.
Amen.
Prayer Source
Who is Gabriel the Archangel?
Saint Gabriel is best known for his role in the Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38). He also told Zechariah of his answered prayers through the coming of Saint John the Baptist. In the Old Testament, Saint Gabriel the Archangel interprets Daniel’s visions.
The name, Gabriel, means “Strength of God.”
Saint Gabriel the Archangel is the patron saint of messengers, postal workers, communications, and broadcasters.
Saint Gabriel the Archangel Prayer
O blessed Archangel Gabriel, we beseech thee, do thou intercede for us at the throne of Divine Mercy in our present necessities, that as thou didst announce to Mary, the mystery of the Incarnation, so through thy prayers and patronage in heaven, we may obtain the benefits of the same, and sing the praise of God forever in the land of the living.
Amen.
Prayer Source