+ Angels are spiritual, bodiless persons who constantly behold the face of God. The word angel denotes what they do: they are helpers and messengers. Today we celebrate three of the top ranking angels or archangels: Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. These spirits were key in salvation history. Devotion to Archangel Michael is the oldest tradition. He is God's Protector. Ever since the beginning, when his counterpart Lucifer caused such havoc to be done to God's people, Michael was sent, and continues to be sent by God to protect and defend God's people of both the Old and New Testament times. Prayer to Michael in times of temptation and trouble is always answered by calm and peace.
Gabriel is God's Spokesperson. He announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah, his father. He greeted Mary with the memorable words: "Hail, full of grace. The Lord is with you!" It was he who delivered God's proposition to Mary to become the mother of his Son. Gabriel is one to pray to before speaking anything important to anyone.
Raphael is the Patron of Healing. He healed Tobit's blindness and provided Sarah with a husband. He hears the prayers of God's people and delivers them to God. He is identified as the angel who healed the earth when it was defiled with the sins of the fallen angels. Prayers for healing and restoration need always be prayed to and through Archangel Raphael.
It is comforting to know that there are others who are also God's dear friends besides us humans. All of creation is a friend of God, all of the animals, and the fish and the birds of the air – and all of the good spirits whom God provides for our companionship and our well-being. Thanks be to God for his generosity and his love and his desire to protect and preserve us!
Bless the Lord, all you angels, you ministers, who do his will!
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