Every September 29, Catholics around the world celebrate three heavenly messengers: Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. These are the only archangels named in Scripture, and each plays a distinct role in God's plan.  Michael led heaven's army against Satan. Gabriel announced Christ's birth to Mary. Raphael healed Tobit's blindness and guided his son on a journey. This feast day, traditionally called Michaelmas, invites us to remember these archangels and seek their help in our lives.

St. Michael the Archangel: Our Defender in Battle

The name Michael means "Who is like God?" in Hebrew. When Satan and his followers rebelled against God, claiming they could be equal to their Creator, Michael's very name became his battle cry. He was declaring that no created being could ever match God's power and glory. Satan, originally a beautiful angel named Lucifer, grew proud and wanted God's throne for himself. About a third of the angels joined his rebellion.

The Book of Revelation describes what happened next. A great war broke out in heaven. Michael led God’s faithful angels against Satan, called the dragon, and his companions. Michael’s army prevailed. Satan and the fallen angels were cast out of heaven and hurled down to earth, where they still work to draw human souls away from God.

In Catholic churches and homes, you'll see St. Michael depicted as a warrior angel in armor, often with his foot on Satan's head or driving a spear through a demon. Sometimes he holds scales, symbolizing his role in judging souls. These images serve as a reminder that while Satan prowls the earth seeking souls to devour, Michael and his angels continue to fight for us.

The Church's devotion to St. Michael grew stronger after Pope Leo XIII's experience in 1886. After celebrating Mass, the Pope suddenly turned pale and stood frozen for about ten minutes. When he recovered, he explained that God had shown him a terrifying vision: Satan and his demons were gathering to destroy the Church over the next century. In response, Pope Leo composed the St. Michael Prayer and ordered it to be prayed after every Low Mass. Although this requirement ended in 1964, millions of Catholics still pray it daily: "St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil..."

Today, when we face temptation, addiction, depression, or any kind of evil, we can call on Michael just like Christians have done for two thousand years. He remains commander of heaven's army, ready to protect anyone who asks for his help.

St. Gabriel the Archangel: Bearer of God's Word

Gabriel means "Strength of God" in Hebrew. This archangel appears at the most important moments in the Bible, always when God needs to deliver a message that will change history.

Most Catholics recognize Gabriel from his visit to Mary in Nazareth. He appeared to a young virgin and delivered words that still echo in every Catholic church today: "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you." Mary was troubled and confused. Why would an angel greet her this way? Gabriel explained that she would conceive a child by the Holy Spirit, and this child would be the Son of God. When Mary accepted this mysterious plan, the Word became flesh in her womb. Gabriel's greeting became the opening of the Hail Mary prayer because it marks the exact moment when our salvation began.

But Gabriel's work started earlier. Six months before visiting Mary, he appeared to an elderly priest named Zechariah in the Temple of Jerusalem. Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, prayed for children their entire lives. Now they were too old for hope. Gabriel announced that Elizabeth would have a son named John, who would prepare Israel for the Messiah. When Zechariah doubted this impossible news, Gabriel revealed his identity: "I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God."

The Book of Daniel also records two appearances of Gabriel. When Daniel was troubled by visions about the end times and the coming Messiah, Gabriel arrived to clarify their meaning. Each time, he played the same role: helping people understand God’s mysterious plans. There is a pattern to Gabriel’s visits. He often begins with the words “Do not be afraid,” because his presence could be overwhelming to those who saw him. Yet he always brought hope, not fear. His mission was to deliver good news with patience, even when people questioned or doubted.

Because of this role as God’s messenger, the Church honors Gabriel as the patron of all who share important messages: postal workers, journalists, broadcasters, diplomats, and teachers. Artists often portray him holding a trumpet, ready to announce news, or a white lily, symbolizing the purity of his message. Every time we pray the Angelus in the morning, at noon, and in the evening, we recall Gabriel’s conversation with Mary. And when we ourselves long to hear God’s voice or need courage to speak of our faith, we can ask Gabriel to give us strength, just as he strengthened Mary for her mission.

St. Raphael the Archangel: Healer and Guide

The name Raphael means “God heals” in Hebrew. His story is told in the Book of Tobit, where he shows how closely God watches over those who suffer.

The account begins with three people weighed down by sorrow. Tobit, a faithful man, had gone blind when bird droppings fell into his eyes. His son Tobias needed to make a dangerous journey to recover money the family desperately needed. In the same city lived Sarah, a young woman haunted by a demon that killed seven husbands on their wedding nights. All three prayed to God for release, even asking for death.

God responded by sending Raphael, who disguised himself as a fellow traveler. He volunteered to join Tobias on his journey. When a large fish attacked Tobias in the river, Raphael told him to keep its heart, liver, and gall for medicine. In the distant city, Raphael guided Tobias to marry Sarah, then taught him how to use the fish’s organs to chase away the demon. On their way back home, Raphael showed Tobias how to restore his father’s sight with the fish’s gall.

Only after these miracles did Raphael reveal himself, saying, “I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand before the throne of God.” The family bowed in awe, but Raphael told them to praise God, not him, for the healings they received.

Through this mission, St. Raphael became recognized as a patron of travelers, caregivers, and those seeking healing. Tradition even suggests Raphael was the angel who stirred the waters at the Bethesda pool in Jerusalem to heal the sick (John 5:2-4). He is also regarded as a patron of happy meetings and marriage, since he brought Tobiah and Sarah together in holy matrimony.

Artists often depict Raphael holding a pilgrim’s staff and a fish (from the Tobit story) or guiding a young traveler. We can pray to St. Raphael for God’s healing in times of illness, help in finding the right path or partner, and safe travel. His presence assures us that God’s providence and healing mercy are always near.

Celebrating September 29 with Faith

The Feast of the Archangels reminds us we're never alone. Michael defends us from evil. Gabriel brings God's messages to our hearts. Raphael heals our wounds and guides our steps.

As you honor these archangels, consider keeping visual reminders of their presence. St. Michael medals have long been worn by those seeking protection, especially those in dangerous professions. A St. Michael statue near your door invites his protection over your home. For St. Gabriel, a sterling silver medal serves as a daily reminder to listen for God's voice. Those seeking healing or safe travels often carry St. Raphael medals or keep his image in their cars.

At St. Patrick's Guild, we've helped Catholic families honor the archangels since 1949. Our collection includes medals, statues, and prayer cards to support your devotion. Whether you're starting a new tradition or deepening an existing one, these sacramentals keep heaven's protectors close at hand.

On this feast and every day, the archangels stand ready to help all who call on them. May you know their protection, guidance, and healing throughout your life.