Pray to the angels during their feast days
Calling upon angels can be a powerful source of comfort and protection in times of spiritual need. Two significant feast days dedicated to angels, the Feast of the Archangels on Sept. 29 and the Feast of the Guardian Angels on Oct. 2, are not just dates on the calendar but opportunities for the faithful to deeply reflect on the important roles angels play in guiding and protecting us.
The Archangels
The word “archangel” means “chief angel” or “angel of high rank,” signifying an angel who holds a place above others in the heavenly hierarchy. Church tradition references seven archangels who stand before God’s throne; only three—St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael—are mentioned by name in the Bible (Tobit 12:15; Luke 1:19).
St. Michael: The Spiritual Warrior
St. Michael the Archangel is renowned for his role as a spiritual warrior. The Book of Revelation recounts his leadership in the battle against Lucifer, casting him and his followers out of Heaven (Rev 12:7–9). This victory over the forces of evil has established St. Michael as the champion of the Church and all Christians, particularly in the ongoing spiritual struggle between good and evil.
In Christian tradition, St. Michael is often invoked for protection, especially against evil spirits and danger. His role as a protector and the patron saint of soldiers, police officers, doctors, and first responders, among others, makes him a powerful intercessor. He is especially comforting for those facing significant spiritual or physical threats and is said to accompany the faithful in their final moments, escorting souls to Heaven.
St. Gabriel: God’s Messenger
St. Gabriel the Archangel is primarily known as a divine messenger. In the Old Testament, Gabriel appears to the prophet Daniel to interpret visions (Dan 8:16). He is best known and most celebrated for his appearance in the New Testament, when he delivers a message to Mary announcing that she will be the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38) and to Zechariah to tell him of the birth of his son, John the Baptist (Luke 1:11-19).
St. Gabriel’s role as a messenger of important divine announcements makes him a patron of communication workers, including those in telecommunications, postal services, and media. His presence reminds us of God’s closeness and the power of divine communication.
St. Raphael: The Healer
St. Raphael the Archangel is celebrated for his role as a healer. In the Book of Tobit, Raphael helps Tobiah drive away a demon that has been tormenting Sarah, allowing them to marry (Tobit 6:14-17). Later, Raphael restores the sight of Tobit, Tobiah’s father, who had been blinded (Tobit 11:7-14).
His name, Raphael, means “God heals,” and he is venerated as the patron saint of travelers, the blind, physicians, nurses, and all who seek healing. In the Book of Enoch, a non-canonical Jewish text, Raphael is also credited with healing the earth after it was corrupted by the sins of fallen angels, reinforcing his role as a divine healer.
Guardian Angels
On Oct. 2, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Guardian Angels. Guardian angels are invisible spiritual beings assigned by God to protect and guide each person throughout their life. These angels serve as divine companions, interceding on our behalf and protecting us from spiritual and physical dangers.
According to the Psalms, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; on their hands, they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone” (Psalm 91:11-12). Jesus also speaks of the angels watching over the faithful, saying, “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father” (Matthew 18:10).
Guardian angels are understood to be holy beings who, though dwelling in Heaven, are tasked with watching over and guiding human souls. The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms that “From infancy to death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession” (CCC 336). Christians are encouraged to pray to their guardian angels for guidance, protection, and assistance in their daily lives.
Prayers to the Angels
Here are two traditional prayers to the angels, which are frequently recited for protection and guidance.
Prayer to St. Michael
St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
cast into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Guardian Angel Prayer
Angel of God, my Guardian dear,
To whom God’s love commits me here,
Ever this day, be at my side,
To light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
As we celebrate the Feast of the Archangels on Sept.29 and the Feast of the Guardian Angels on Oct. 2, let us take time to reflect on the powerful presence of angels in our lives. Whether seeking protection from St. Michael, divine communication through St. Gabriel, or healing with the help of St. Raphael, the angels are a constant reminder of God’s care and protection over us. We are never alone—our guardian angels are always with us, interceding and guiding us on our journey toward Heaven.
