The figure of St. Michael has always been a landmark for Christians around the world. His best-known iconography depicts him as the Archangel armed with a sword, trampling Satan, defeating him. His feast day falls on September 29 and he is celebrated together with the angels Gabriel and Raphael.
Since he is considered the patron saint of soldiers, policemen and law enforcement in general, he plays a very important role as a defender of good in the Catholic Church.
Learn more about St. Michael by reading the following paragraphs.
Who was Saint Michael the Archangel?
We first hear the name of St. Michael in the Bible: frequently described as the supreme leader of the heavenly army, he and Lucifer were initially tasked with leading the army together, being considered the strongest and bravest angels close to God.
This changed when a war broke out in heaven, as described in Revelation 12:7-8:
After Lucifer's betrayal, the perfection of both angels is shattered, turning them into bitter enemies. St. Michael starts a war against his brother, becoming his reason for living, driving him out of heaven, persecuting him and defending humanity from his temptations.
From that moment on, St. Michael the Archangel becomes the punisher of those who rebel against God, the defender of Truth and the Church. Not coincidentally, his name comes from the Hebrew Mi-ka-el, which means “who is like God?” and also has the important role of announcing the end of the world by sounding the trumpet of Judgment.
St Michael iconography
The iconography of St. Michael is abundant and varied, reflecting his figure as a warrior archangel and defender of the faith. The common elements found in iconographic representations of St. Michael is his armor and sword, symbolizing his warrior nature and his struggle against the forces of evil, particularly the devil. Satan is often depicted submissive to the Archangel Michael, and trampled by him in defeat.
For this reason he is the patron saint of those who defend and protect us, such as military and police officers.
In some representations, there’s an additional element: St. Michael holds a scale in his hand. The scale is a symbol of divine justice and represents his role as heavenly judge, weighing actions and souls at the time of judgment. This symbol underscores St. Michael's connection to fair measure and justice, emphasizing his importance in ensuring righteousness according to divine law.
Saint Michael the Archangel by Guido Reni
St Michael prayer
When we face major challenges, or need guidance for everyday struggles, dedicating a prayer to St. Michael will help us to have his powerful intercession.
The most well-known prayer dedicated to St. Michael is the one below:
Through the use of the St. Michael Medal or the St. Michael Chaplet, many Christians the world over bring the powerful energy of this saint into their daily lives.
With faith in our hearts and the protection of St. Michael, it is indeed possible to face challenges with courage and determination, as he is able to light our way as we travel the paths of life.
Learn more by watching our video dedicated to St. Michael's on YouTube.
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St Anthony of Padua, the Patron we Pray for Lost Things→
St Jude: the Saint we pray to for impossible causes and desperate situations→