Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels
This day is celebrated as a Solemnity at Conception Abbey because the three Archangels are our main patrons after the Virgin Mary.
There is an old title for the Feast of the Archangels called Michaelmas, or St. Michael’s Mass. In the Fifth Century, a Basilica was dedicated to St. Michael in Rome on September 30th. The celebrations began the previous evening on September 29th. September 29th would, later on, become the celebration for all three Archangels mentioned in the Bible: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Some ancient sources also add other angels such as Uriel.
These Archangels are God’s forthright promoters of His Divine Will. St. Michael cast the Devil out of Heaven. St. Raphael guided Tobias on his quest in the Book of Tobit. St. Gabriel had the noble task of presenting Mary with her holy calling to bear Jesus, and be “the Mother of God.” These tales of angels inspire a sense of wonder at the almighty mystery of God’s saving plan.
The prophet Daniel shared his vision of the “thrones” he saw set up before the living God. As the vision continued Daniel saw one who was “like the Son of Man” who came to God. This Son of Man received “power, dominion, and kingship.” His dominion would be “everlasting.” It would “never be taken away.” The Gospels would reveal Jesus as both the Son of God and the Son of Man. Jesus came to fulfill the promises of old. “Myriads” of angels minister to God in Daniel’s vision, and Jesus promises Nathaniel in today’s Gospel that he will see angels “ascending and descending” from Heaven.
Angels are here for our benefit. These celestial friends can help us along our way in life. Yes, it must be said that God is all-powerful. We must not forget that God willingly chooses to share His power and mission with His creatures. He grants the Archangels to participate in His mission. And we in turn share in this mission as well. We can ask the Archangels to help us and to guide us on our mission. Amen
Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB
Posted in Articles for Lent, Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources