+ Today was originally known as the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel (or Michaelmas Day), it was only later in church history that the lesser known feasts of
Sts. Gabriel and Raphael were added to the celebration. They were linked
together to highlight the activity of a group of powerful spiritual beings,
archangels, who directly intervened in the affairs of men – the chosen people
of God.
Archangel
Michael was the great
defender of the people of Israel in the Old Testament, and is connected
with the final battle that will take place at the end times: he will be
defender and friend of all who tried their hardest to go the narrow way and live
the life of Christ.
Archangel
Gabriel was God’s messenger
and announced the births both of John the Baptist and Jesus the Messiah: he
was therefore a key instrument in the history of salvation.
And Archangel Raphael brings messages
and prayers from the people to God, especially prayers for healing – he was
instrumental in both physical and spiritual healing in the life of Tobiah in
the Book of Tobit.
We
rejoice that we have as allies and friends those who are God’s
special friends and agents. May we ask for defense
against the insidious and cunning forces of evil from Michael, the announcement
of good news and new life for us from Gabriel, and healing from physical and
spiritual maladies from Raphael – as we make our way today to our heavenly
homeland where we will live forever praising God and enjoying the company of
all the angels and saints!
Bless
the Lord, all you angels, you ministers, who do his will.
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