Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels

Scripture names three archangels, messengers sent by God for great missions. Michael, whose name means "Who is like God?", appears in the Book of Daniel as the great prince who protects God's people, and in the Book of Revelation he leads the angels in battle against the dragon. Gabriel, "strength of God," explained visions to Daniel, announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah, and brought to Mary the news that she would be the mother of the Son of God.

Raphael, "God heals," appears in the Book of Tobit, where, disguised as a traveling companion, he guides young Tobias on a long journey, protects him from danger, helps him find a wife and cures the blindness of his father, Tobit. Until 1969 each archangel had his own feast; since then the Church has honored all three together on September 29, the ancient feast of the dedication of a basilica to Saint Michael near Rome.

In England this day is traditionally called Michaelmas. Italy's ancient shrine of Monte Sant'Angelo on the Gargano and France's Mont-Saint-Michel draw pilgrims, and many towns in Latin America named San Miguel celebrate their patron with processions and fiestas.

Many families pray the Prayer to Saint Michael composed by Pope Leo XIII, and police officers, soldiers and first responders often wear his medal for protection.