👼 The Archangels: God’s Messengers with a Mission
This Tuesday, September 29, we celebrate the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels.
Three angels. Three very different missions. And three names that remind us that heaven is not sitting around doing nothing!
The word “angel” comes from the Greek angelos, meaning messenger. Angels are spiritual beings created by God to serve Him and to assist us according to His will. They are not cute little babies with wings floating around on clouds—although that is often how Christmas cards like to portray them! Angels are powerful servants of God, completely devoted to His glory.
And among the angels, the Church gives special attention to these three archangels.
St. Michael is the great defender. His name means “Who is like God?” Michael is traditionally known as the protector of the Church and the one who stands against evil. His message is simple and powerful: God comes first. When temptation comes knocking, St. Michael reminds us that we don't have to open the door!
St. Gabriel is the messenger. His name means “God is my strength.” Gabriel is the angel who brought Mary the extraordinary news that she had been chosen to become the Mother of the Saviour. He also appeared to Zechariah and announced the birth of John the Baptist. Gabriel reminds us that God often comes into our lives with an invitation—and sometimes that invitation sounds rather frightening at first: “Do not be afraid.”
St. Raphael is the companion and healer. His name means “God heals.” We meet him especially in the Book of Tobit, where he accompanies young Tobiah on his journey and brings healing to his family. Raphael reminds us that God does not abandon us on the road. Sometimes He sends help in ways we recognize immediately, and sometimes only later do we realize that someone was an angel of God for us.
These three archangels give us a beautiful picture of the Christian life:
Michael teaches us to stand firm.
Gabriel teaches us to listen.
Raphael teaches us to walk with God and care for others.
Perhaps this week we could ask ourselves: Where do I need St. Michael’s courage? Where do I need Gabriel’s openness to God’s message? Where do I need Raphael’s healing and guidance?
And there is one more important reminder. We don't worship angels. We worship God, the Creator of angels and of us. The angels simply point us toward Him.
So on Tuesday, September 29, let us thank God for St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael—and ask these heavenly messengers to pray for our parish, our families, our children, our sick, and all those who need God’s protection and guidance.
And if you happen to hear a little whisper this week encouraging you to pray, forgive someone, go to Mass, or finally open that Bible you have been promising to read for the last ten years… perhaps don't ignore it!
Saint Michael, pray for us.
Saint Gabriel, pray for us.
Saint Raphael, pray for us.
And may all the angels and saints lead us closer to Jesus!
