Catholic Diocese of Clifton
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Saint Michael the Archangel |
The name Michael signifies "Who is like to God?" and was the warcry of the good angels in the battle fought in heaven against satan and his followers. Holy Scripture describes St. Michael as "one of the chief princes," and leader of the forces of heaven in their triumph over the powers of hell. He has been especially honored and invoked as patron and protector by the Church from the time of the Apostles. Although he is always called "the Archangel," the Greek Fathers and many others place him over all the angels - as Prince of the Seraphim. St. Michael is the patron of grocers, mariners, paratroopers, police and sickness.
Christian tradition has given St. Michael the
following offices:
To fight against Satan.
To rescue souls of the faithful from the power of the
enemy.
To call away from earth and bring men's souls to judgment.
St. Michael's feast day is September 29th.
| "Holy Michael Archangel, defend us in the day of battle; be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust down to hell Satan, and all the wicked spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls." |