The Feast of the Archangels

Originally, September 29 was the feast of St. Michael the Archangel.  The day was chosen in remembrance of the day when, under his invocation, a church was consecrated on Mount Gargano. With the reform of the liturgical calendar after Vatican II, the other two named archangels were added to the feast. All three are named in Scripture.

However, the term “archangel” only appears once in the Scriptures. In verse nine of the New Testament Book of Jude, we read: But Michael the archangel, when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses, did not dare pronounce against him a railing judgment, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” In all other instances, the simple term “angel” is used when referring to these immortal spirits which appear from time to time in the Scriptures. While the word “angel” means “messenger,” these personifications function as companions, guardians, guides, overseers, and members of the heavenly court. They heal and protect us as well as reveal God’s will to us.