Theme: “Messengers of God’s Power, Presence, and Healing”

Today we celebrate three archangels—Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael—each with a distinct mission in God’s plan:

• Michael, the protector and warrior, who defends against evil (Revelation 12:7–12).
• Gabriel, the messenger, who announces God’s promises (Luke 1:26–38).
• Raphael, the healer and guide, who walks with the suffering (Tobit 5–12).

These are not just heavenly figures from ancient texts. They are signs of how God continues to act in our world—through protection, communication, and healing.

📖 In today’s first reading from Daniel (7:9–10, 13–14), we glimpse the majesty of heaven: thrones, fire, myriads of angels. It’s a vision of divine authority and eternal kingship. And in the Gospel (John 1:47–51), Jesus tells Nathanael, “You will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” Heaven is not far away—it touches earth through Christ.

🧑 Real-Life Reflections: Archangels Among Us

Let me share three stories that echo the mission of these archangels:

🛡️ Michael – The Protector

A police officer named Maria once told me that before every shift, she prays the St. Michael Prayer. One night, she responded to a domestic violence call. She said, “I didn’t just walk in with training—I walked in with faith.” Her courage and calm helped de-escalate the situation. She protected not just physically, but spiritually. That’s Michael’s spirit—defending the vulnerable and standing firm against darkness.

📣 Gabriel – The Messenger

A teacher named James works in a public school where many students face poverty and trauma. He told me, “I try to be a voice of hope. Even when I’m teaching math, I want them to hear: ‘You matter. You’re loved.’” Gabriel’s mission wasn’t just to deliver information—it was to deliver transformation. James does that every day.

🩺 Raphael – The Healer

A nurse named Linda volunteers at a hospice center. She sits with patients in their final days, holding hands, listening to stories, praying quietly. “I don’t always have answers,” she said, “but I try to be present.” Like Raphael walking with Tobit and healing his blindness, Linda brings light into the shadows.

🙏 Takeaway

The archangels remind us that God is not distant. He sends help. He speaks. He heals.

So today, ask yourself:

• Where do I need protection? And where can I be a protector?
• What message of hope can I carry to someone who’s discouraged?
• Who around me needs healing—not just of body, but of heart?

Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael are not just figures in stained glass—they are patterns for how we live. May we reflect their mission in our homes, our work, and our witness.