REFLECTION/Homily for the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael (Archangels) 29TH SEPTEMBER 2023
Homily for the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael (Archangels). Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14. Psalm 138:1-2a,2bcd-3,4-5. John 1:47-51. Today, we celebrate the feast of three archangels, who are mentioned in the Bible by name: Michael, the protector of the people of God, Gabriel, the messenger of good news, and Raphael, the healer in the Book of Tobit. This feast recalls the dedication of the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Rome in the fifth century. The archangels are higher in ranks than the angels. The angels are sent by God to deliver minor messages while the archangels deliver major messages. The name Michael signifies, "Who is like God?" And was the war cry of the good Angels in the battle fought in heaven against Satan and his followers. The Bible describes St. Michael as "one of the chief princes," and as leader of the forces of heaven in their triumph over the powers of hell. He has been especially honoured and invoked as Patron and protector by...