Series
Saints and Devotions
On September 29, the Catholic Church celebrates Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, the three angels named in the canonical books of Scripture recognized by the Catholic Church.
The feast is formally the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels. It reminds Catholics that angels are creatures of God who serve His purposes, not independent spiritual powers.
The Clear Answer
Michael appears as defender and heavenly warrior, Gabriel as God's messenger in Daniel and Luke, and Raphael as guide and healer in Tobit. Catholics honor them on September 29 and may ask their intercession, while worship belongs to God alone.
Saint Michael the Archangel
Michael appears in Daniel, Jude and Revelation. Jude explicitly calls him an archangel. Revelation 12 depicts Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon, identified with the devil and Satan.
His name is traditionally understood as the question, “Who is like God?” The name itself points away from the angel and toward the incomparable greatness of God.
For a fuller biblical study, read Saint Michael the Archangel: Meaning, Bible Story and Catholic Devotion.
Saint Gabriel the Archangel
Gabriel appears in the Book of Daniel and in Luke's Gospel. He announces the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah and, most famously, is sent to Mary in Nazareth to announce that she will conceive Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit.
That event is the Annunciation, celebrated on March 25 and prayed as the First Joyful Mystery of the Rosary.
Read The Annunciation: Meaning, Bible Story and Why Catholics Celebrate March 25.
Saint Raphael the Archangel
Raphael appears in the Book of Tobit. He accompanies Tobias on his journey, helps bring healing to Tobit and eventually reveals his identity as one of the seven angels who stand before the glory of the Lord.
Because of this biblical account, Raphael is traditionally associated with travel, healing and guidance.
Catholics should understand this through intercession. Raphael does not replace God as the source of healing or providence.
Why Are They Called Archangels?
The term archangel appears in the New Testament, including Jude's description of Michael. Catholic tradition applies the title to Michael, Gabriel and Raphael in the liturgy.
Popular charts sometimes describe archangels as simply the “highest” type of angel, but Catholic angelology is more nuanced. The traditional nine choirs of angels come from theological reflection on biblical terminology rather than a simple ranking explicitly laid out in one biblical passage.
Why September 29?
The modern Roman calendar joins Michael, Gabriel and Raphael on September 29. Historically, the date was especially associated with Saint Michael and the dedication of a church in his honor in Rome. Over time the Roman liturgical celebration came to honor all three named archangels together.
The older English name Michaelmas comes from “Michael's Mass.”
How Can Catholics Observe the Feast?
- Attend Mass when possible.
- Read Revelation 12 for Michael, Luke 1 for Gabriel and Tobit for Raphael.
- Pray the Saint Michael Prayer.
- Ask the archangels' intercession for faithfulness to God's will.
- Thank God for the ministry of the angels described in Scripture.
Medals and devotional images may serve as reminders of prayer, but they should not be treated as magical protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Feast of the Archangels?
September 29 in the Roman Catholic calendar.
Which archangels does the Catholic Church name?
Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.
Are angels saints?
The Church uses the title “Saint” for the holy angels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, even though they are not human beings.
Do Catholics worship archangels?
No. Catholics honor the angels and may ask their intercession. Worship belongs to God alone.
Final Thoughts
The feast of Michael, Gabriel and Raphael turns attention ultimately toward God. Each biblical mission differs, but each archangel serves God's plan. Their feast invites Catholics to imitate that fidelity and to remember that even the greatest angels are servants of the Lord.
