Saint Michael the Archangel: Prayer, Feast Day and Story
Saint Michael the Archangel
Prayer, story and feast day of the protector of the Church
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Light a candle
Bring your intention before Saint Michael. Your words stay on your own device.
Who is Saint Michael
His name in Hebrew is a question: Mi-ka-El, "Who is like God?" Scripture calls him one of the chief princes of the angels, the one who stands guard over God's people. In the Book of Revelation he leads the hosts of heaven against the dragon, and so the Church has always asked his help in times of trial, temptation and danger.
Pope Leo XIII wrote the prayer above in 1886. For many years it was said after every Low Mass, and many families still pray it each day, often after the last decade of the Rosary.
Daniel 10:13 · Daniel 12:1 · Jude 1:9 · Revelation 12:7-9
Feast of the Archangels
Saint Michael is honored with Saints Gabriel and Raphael on September 29.
Many Catholics prepare with a novena: pray the Saint Michael prayer each day from September 20 to 28.
Carry Saint Michael with you
Handmade rosaries with the Saint Michael medal, chosen by our customers.
Questions about Saint Michael
When is the feast day of Saint Michael?
September 29, the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels. It is also known as Michaelmas.
Who wrote the Saint Michael prayer?
Pope Leo XIII composed it in 1886. It was prayed after Low Mass for many decades and remains one of the best loved Catholic prayers.
When should I pray the Saint Michael prayer?
At any time you need protection or strength: in the morning, before travel, in times of temptation, or at the end of the Rosary after the last decade.
What does the name Michael mean?
Michael comes from Hebrew and means "Who is like God?", a reminder that no one can stand against God.
Is Saint Michael an angel or a saint?
He is an archangel. The Church calls him Saint Michael because he is honored among the saints in heaven.
What is Saint Michael the patron of?
He is invoked for protection against evil, and is the patron of soldiers, police officers and all who protect others, as well as the sick and the dying.
Pray more: Pray the Rosary with us · Guardian Angel prayer · St. Michael rosary guide