Signification of the Feast of the Archangels

The Feast of the Archangels, celebrated each year on 29 September, is a time of devotion deeply rooted in Christian tradition. This day is dedicated to three of the most revered archangels: Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel and Saint Raphael. These angelic figures play a central role in Christianity, acting as divine protectors and messengers, each with a specific mission to humanity.

Their role in salvation history is manifold: they provide guidance, healing and defence against the forces of evil. As celestial figures close to God, the archangels represent powerful intermediaries that the faithful invoke in their prayers to obtain help and support in times of difficulty or temptation.

Beyond their spiritual dimension, the Feast of the Archangels is an invitation to reconnect with the protective force of the divine universe. It's a day dedicated to reflecting on our own spiritual journey, and to praying for protection against visible and invisible evils. By honouring the archangels, we honour divine wisdom and the ongoing battle against the forces of evil.

The Three Archangels: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael

For more details on the archangels, see our dedicated article, which goes into greater depth on the specific role and missions of each of them.

St Michael

Saint Michael is often described as the leader of the heavenly armies. He is the defender of the faith and the one who fights Satan and the forces of evil. His name means ‘Who is like God’, reflecting his unique position among the archangels. He is also the protector of sacred places and believers, fighting against evil spirits. Saint Michael is often prayed to to protect people from negative forces and guide them towards divine light.

In various Christian traditions, the image of Saint Michael is often that of the triumphant warrior, conqueror of evil, slaying the dragon, symbol of the devil. As ‘prince of the heavenly hostages’, he symbolises the victory of good over evil and divine justice. Many churches and places of worship around the world are dedicated to him, including the famous Mont Saint-Michel in France.

Saint Gabriel

Saint Gabriel is the archangel messenger, responsible for transmitting divine announcements. He is best known for announcing to the Holy Mary that she would give birth to Jesus Christ. But Gabriel is also mentioned in other religious texts, bringing the word of God to those in need.

He is often prayed to for clarity, wisdom and peace. As a divine spokesman, Saint Gabriel also symbolises the power of speech and communication. Believers seeking to convey a message or clarify a situation often pray to this archangel for help in finding the right words and conveying truths with kindness.

St Raphael

Saint Raphael is the archangel of healing. His name means ‘God heals’, and he is mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Tobit. He is invoked to obtain physical, emotional or spiritual healing graces. Saint Raphael is also known as a guide to travellers, protecting them along the way.

His figure is essential for those seeking to heal deep wounds, whether in the body or in the soul. Many believers pray to Saint Raphael in times of illness or trial, seeing him as a divine intercessor capable of restoring health and bringing inner peace.

Why 29 September?

The date of 29 September was chosen by the Church to celebrate the feast of the archangels. This particular day coincides with the inauguration of a basilica dedicated to Saint Michael in Rome in the 5th century. However, the feast day later evolved to include Saint Gabriel and Saint Raphael, in recognition of their essential role in Christian tradition.

September 29 thus symbolises a collective celebration of the divine protection provided by these three celestial figures. It is a reminder that, in our journey of faith, we are never alone and that we can count on the presence and help of the archangels to guide and protect us in our daily lives.

Difference between Angels and Archangels

Angels and archangels are often confused, but they occupy different roles in the celestial hierarchy. Angels are divine messengers who carry out God's will, while the more powerful archangels are entrusted with special missions of vital importance to humanity.

Archangels often act as leaders among the angels. They are responsible for guiding the angels in their tasks and ensuring that divine orders are carried out with precision. Saint Michael, for example, is described as the leader of the heavenly armies, a position that gives him superior authority in the spirit realm.

The Feast of the Archangels around the World

The Feast of the Archangels is celebrated in many Christian cultures around the world, but practices vary according to country and local tradition. In Italy, for example, processions in honour of Saint Michael are organised, particularly in southern regions such as Puglia, where he is considered a powerful protector.

In France, Mont Saint-Michel is an important place of pilgrimage where special masses are celebrated to honour the archangel. The figure of Saint Michael is particularly venerated there, and many pilgrims go there every year to pray and ask for his protection.

In Mexico and parts of Latin America, the Archangels' Festival is also very popular, and religious ceremonies accompanied by dancing and singing are organised to mark the occasion. It is a time of spiritual renewal, when believers express their devotion and gratitude for the divine protection provided by these celestial messengers.