St michael archangel history
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This feast honors not only St. Michael but also SS. Gabriel and Raphael, who are also named in Scripture. In Daniel xii, Michael is called "the great prince who standeth for the children of Thy people." In these references Michael is represented as Israel's great support during the seventy years of the Babylonian captivity. Because of this victory, St.
Michael is revered in Catholic tradition and liturgy as the protector of the Church, as once he was regarded as the protector of the Israelites. These are not harmless practices.
Michael the Archangel is one of the most frequently depicted saints in Christian art. In the New Testament (Jude ix), we are told that Michael disputed with the devil over the body of Moses; this episode is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. He is contrasted with heretics, as he did not hesitate to rebuke Satan over the body of Moses, saying, "The Lord punish you!" This passage underscores St.
Michael's unwavering commitment to God's divine justice.
In Our Catholic Tradition
Within our Roman Catholic tradition, St. Michael the Archangel holds a special place. Michael is the patron of soldiers, police officers, doctors, and anyone involved in protecting life and upholding justice. His cult has also been popular in Egypt, Rome, France, and Germany.
At the moment of death, he offers the souls an opportunity for redemption, thwarting the devil's attempts to claim them.
St. Michael's triumphant role in this battle marks a significant shift from the Old Testament to the New Testament.
The Epistle of Jude
In the Epistle of Jude, St. Michael is cited as an example of righteous judgment and opposition to evil. He appears in the Book of Enoch as one of the seven archangels, alongside Uriel, Raguel, Raphael, Sariel, Gabriel, and Remiel.
He is often shown:
- Wielding a sword or spear.
- Weighing souls with scales.
- Standing over a defeated dragon (Satan).
Famous sites include Mont-Saint-Michel in France, the Sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo in Italy, and various other churches honoring St. Michael the Archangel Catholic around the world.
Why Is Devotion to St.
Michael Important Today?
In a world increasingly aware of spiritual warfare, devotion to St. Michael the Archangel is more important than ever. Throughout history, he has been revered by military orders of knights and is considered the patron saint of various cities and countries.
Prayers and Devotions
Catholics frequently turn to St.
Michael for protection and guidance. Daniel, wise and holy leader that he was, wanted his people to understand that God had not forgotten them, and that, even though enslaved, they had a royal champion. Michael, who ranks among the seven archangels, is also one of the three angels mentioned by name in the Scriptures, the others being St.
Raphael and St. Gabriel. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Michael the Archangel Prayer Card (English)
Free Download | St. Michael the Archangel Prayer Card in Spanish
St. While not formally canonized as a saint, he is revered as a celestial being with immense significance.
Four Main Roles in Catholic Teaching
We recognize that St.
Michael has four "offices" or roles.
- Leader of the Army of God: St. Michael is seen as the commander of heaven's forces, leading the angelic host in their battle against the powers of darkness. His emblems are a banner, a sword, a dragon, and scales. His title as “prince of the heavenly host” makes him the archetype of holy defenders.
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