Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels - Feast 


Daniel 7:9-10,​13-14 ·

Psalm 137(138):1-5

John 1:47-51



Reflecting on the Angelic Hierarchy


In Catholic doctrine, there are nine choirs of angels, arranged from the lowest to the highest rank: Angels, Archangels, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Dominions, Thrones, Cherubim, and Seraphim.


Within the Church, particular reverence is given to the archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, all of whom are mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments. Michael is often recognized for his role in the battle against evil, as described in the Book of Revelation, and his name translates to "Who is like God?" A prayer invoking Saint Michael for protection is commonly recited. Gabriel, identified as the messenger angel, announced to Mary that she would conceive the Son of God. His name means “God is My Strength," and he is associated with wisdom, revelation, prophecy, and visions. Raphael’s name signifies “Healing Power of God," and he is depicted in the Book of Tobit as a divine envoy sent in response to Tobit’s and his daughter’s prayers. In this account, Raphael serves as a companion, guide, and healer, curing Tobit of blindness.


Angels are spiritual entities that assist God in His ministries on Earth and in Heaven. Our readings today include the verse, “Thousands upon thousands were ministering to Him, and myriads upon myriads attended Him" (Daniel 7:9–10). This verse suggests the vastness and activity of the angelic host. During the Triduum, reflections may be made regarding the angels' roles during Christ’s Passion, death, and resurrection. One might envision Michael leading an angelic army in readiness, Gabriel observing with solemnity, and Raphael yearning to heal broken hearts. The joy of Christ’s resurrection and ascension likely brought their participation and understanding of God's divine plan.


Today presents an opportune moment to contemplate these archangels. Consider reflecting on your preferred story of an archangel and discern where God may be guiding you through such meditation.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
  Thursday of week 7 in Ordinary Time  Ecclesiasticus 5:1-10 Psalm 1:1-4,6 Mark 9:41-50 DELAY NOT YOUR CONVERSION  In our first reading from Sirach, the author emphasizes, “Delay not your conversion to the Lord.” This statement, positioned toward the conclusion of the reading, encapsulates the preceding content and aligns with the teachings of Jesus in the Gospel reading, both highlighting the essence of what it means to undergo conversion to the Lord. Sirach cautions against reliance on material wealth and personal strength, suggesting that a fundamental shift in mindset necessary for conversion is one of surrender. As individuals draw nearer to God, there is a growing recognition of the necessity to submit to divine will, prioritizing reliance on God over our capabilities. This process is inherently humbling and often challenging to accept, yet it is the pathway to authentic peace and serenity. Personal attempts to navigate life independently, outside of God's guidance,...
Read more
Image
  Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)   Jer 20.10-13;   Ps 68;   Rom 5.12-15;   Mt 10.26-33 Do not be afraid. The fear of the Lord guides us into the realm of wisdom. The presence of God should inspire awe, wonder, and a profound sense of reverence. Here, 'fear' does not refer to shock, horror, or terror, but to the deep respect one feels in the presence of a being that transcends our senses and the material universe—a recognition of the divine beyond external appearances. This reverence should motivate us to act according to God's will. To fear the Lord means to obey Him, which in turn grants us the wisdom of the heart and enlightens our minds. Consider the fears prevalent in today’s world. We face significant threats: tyranny, deception, violence, and unrest that continuously threaten societal stability. The magnitude of twentieth-century warfare—resulting in more casualties than all previous history—underscores this danger. The increasing number of marty...
Read more
Image
  TESTIFYING TO THE MESSAGE OF CHRIST’S RESURRECTION MONDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK OF EASTERTIDE Acts 4:23-31 Psalm: Ps.2:1-9 John 3:1-8 We are diving back into the thrilling narrative of the Acts of the Apostles, where boldness and faith collide! Picture this: Peter and John stand before the powerful Sanhedrin, fearlessly proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Despite the intimidating circumstances, they share the incredible news of Christ’s Resurrection. After a tense deliberation, the court orders them to stop speaking in Jesus’ name. But did Peter and John back down? No way! They promised to remain true witnesses to what they had seen and heard. Threatened but undeterred, they walk away, and that's just where our excitement begins this morning! As they return from that daunting encounter, Peter and John can’t contain their joy. “We preached to the Sanhedrin!” they declare. “They told us not to spread the word about Jesus!” The stakes are high, but instead of feeling disheartened, ...
Read more