Saint Raphael

Saint Raphael category

Saint Raphael is one of the three archangels named in the Bible, along with Michael and Gabriel. Known as the divine healer and protector of travellers, he plays a central role in the Christian faith. Find out here everything you need to know about Saint Raphael and why he is a central figure in Christian spirituality.

Who is Saint Raphael?

Saint Raphael is one of the archangels, whose name means "God heals" in Hebrew. He is best known for his role in the Book of Tobit, where he guides and protects Tobias on his journey and cures his father, Tobit, of blindness. As a healing angel and guide, Saint Raphael is revered for his ability to bring physical and spiritual healing and to protect travellers.

Why pray to Saint Raphael?

The faithful pray to Saint Raphael to ask for his protection when travelling, for healing from illness and for his help in situations requiring guidance and clarity. He is often invoked by those seeking physical and emotional healing, as well as by travellers and pilgrims for safe protection and a safe journey.

How to pray to Saint Raphael:

To pray to Saint Raphael, it is advisable to recite the following prayer with faith and devotion:

"Saint Raphael, glorious Archangel, faithful guide and protector of travellers, we pray to you to protect us in all our travels. Intercede for us with God to obtain healing for our illnesses and strength for our souls. Guide us along the path of peace and security, and help us to overcome life's difficulties. Amen."

What miracles are associated with Saint Raphael?

Many miracles are attributed to Saint Raphael's intercession, including physical healings and miraculous protection during dangerous journeys. In the Book of Tobit, Saint Raphael cures Tobit's blindness and helps Tobit drive out a demon, thus saving his future wife, Sarah. These miraculous acts make Saint Raphael a powerful and benevolent intercessor for those seeking healing and protection.

What is the story of Saint Raphael?

The story of Saint Raphael is mainly taken from the Old Testament book of Tobit. Sent by God, Raphael poses as a human and accompanies Tobias on a long journey, offering him protection and guidance. At the end of the journey, he reveals his true identity as an archangel and performs several miraculous healings. This story has established Saint Raphael as a celestial protector and healer.

What are the symbols associated with Saint Raphael?

Saint Raphael is often depicted with a pilgrim's staff, a fish and a gourd, symbolising his role as guide and healer. The fish refers to the story in the Book of Tobit, where Raphael uses parts of the fish to perform healings. These symbols emphasise his attributes of protection, travel and healing.

Where to find shrines dedicated to Saint Raphael?

There are several shrines and churches dedicated to Saint Raphael around the world. One notable example is the Church of Saint Raphael in Paris, France, where the faithful can pray and ask for the archangel's intercession. Many pilgrims visit these places to ask for graces and healings, as well as to pray for protection during their travels.

To find out more about Saint Raphael and explore religious articles dedicated to him, visit our dedicated Saint Raphael section on our website. You'll find statues, medals, books and other devotional items to deepen your faith and devotion to this healing and protective archangel.