I am a believer in angels and I make no apologies for that. This day celebrates three archangels that I have been praying to daily for months now: St. Michael, protect me; St. Raphael, heal me; St. Gabriel, bring good news. I pray it every morning and on occasion, I may whisper the words throughout the day. I feel tremendously calm afterwards.

I envision each of the angels differently. Michael has his sword drawn, ready for action in order to protect me. The photo is taken in Rome where St. Michael stands atop a building, returning his sword to its sheath, after defeating the enemy. St. Raphael places his hands upon my head to heal me. Gabriel is flying, horn in mouth, trumpeting before announcing the Good News. I love these angels and know that they take very good care of me.

It was on this day 23 years ago that I opened my morning prayer books and tears spilled over. I knew that all was going to be fine. We would gather as community a few hours later to say goodbye to and remember my sister who had died three days earlier. That service was one of the most painful experiences of my life as we sat in a row, in a hard pew, with a limited number of people gathered behind us. My father wept openly at the loss of his youngest daughter. I thought my heart had been completely shattered to pieces and nothing more could break but I was wrong. I stood up to read and saw the faces of family and friends and crumbled inside. How could this be happening? The situation was so surreal. We all made it through that day and this day has come to be a pure gift because I know that the Archangels themselves waited for my sister and stood with us in our grief.

The Psalm today has as its response: In the sight of the angels I will sing your praises, Lord. I knew that day that the angels were within sight and I was able to find praise for that blessing even in my pain and sorrow. These angels had helped us through and have been with us since as a reminder of God’s steadfast love.

At the end of the readings today is a quote from St. Francis de Sales: Call on the angels, honour them often, and ask their help in all your affairs, temporal as well as spiritual. I can tell you that 23 years ago, I called upon those angels often. I still honour them and ask for their help. My daily petition rises with deep gratitude. These three archangels are powerful. Turn to them in your need. They will not disappoint.

Peace,

Suzanne

Reflection Questions
How do any of these archangels assist you during the day?
Do you have an affinity to any one of these in particular?

Prayer
St. Michael, protect me.
St. Raphael, heal me.
St. Gabriel, bring good news.
Archangels surround me and bless me.
You stand in the presence of the
Almighty Ancient One, serving with power.
May our prayers rise to you
with steadfast faith and gratitude.
Glory be to God for creating you.

Amen.