29/09/2026
SEPTEMBER 29: STS. MICHAEL, GABRIEL, RAPHAEL
The Church celebrates the Holy Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael together because Scripture presents each of them as heavenly messengers entrusted by God with particular missions in the history of salvation.
St. Michael, whose name means “Who is like God?”, appears in the Book of Daniel as a protector of God's people and in Revelation as the leader of the heavenly battle against the dragon. He reminds us that evil does not have the final word and that God's people are under His protection.
St. Gabriel, whose name is traditionally understood as “God is my strength,” is God's messenger in some of the most important moments of salvation history. He announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah and, most famously, appeared to the Virgin Mary to announce that she would become the Mother of the Son of God (Lk 1:26–38).
St. Raphael, whose name means “God heals,” appears in the Book of Tobit as the angel who accompanies Tobias on his journey. He brings healing to Tobit and Sarah and reveals God's providential care for their family (Tob 3–12).
Together, the three archangels beautifully remind us of God's care: Michael defends, Gabriel announces, and Raphael accompanies and heals. Pope Francis described them in a similar way: Michael helps us fight evil, Gabriel brings the Good News, and Raphael takes us by the hand along life's journey.
Holy Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, pray for us!