Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels

Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel." Jesus answered and said to him, "Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this." And he said to him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."

Angels are constantly watching over each and every one of us. We pray to St. Michael for protection from the wickedness and snares of the devil. We pray to Gabriel that we might receive the Good News with open hearts just as Mary did. We pray to Raphael for healing of body, mind, and spirit. Each archangel's name reveals an important aspect of our faith. Michael's name means, "Who is like God?" and reminds us that we should never let our pride or worldly temptations replace our faith in God, who should be the Alpha and Omega of our lives. Gabriel's name means "God is my strength" and we would do well to remember that when we are faced with trials and sufferings. Our strength can only bear so much without God, but with Him all things are possible and great burdens can become light. Lastly, Raphael's name means "God has healed" and as long as our hearts are open to His Mercy, our spiritual wounds will be healed and we shall be cleansed of our sins. We are all blessed to have these archangels watching over us and constantly reminding us that God gave them to the world to protect us, give us strength, and heal us.

How often do we turn to our guardian angels for help? What about the archangels? How can our lives be more angelic and always point others toward God?

O Lord, send your angels to protect and guide us.

Amen.