The name Michael comes from the Hebrew and means who is like God. In the Bible we learn that war broke out in heaven. Saint Michael fought against Satan and the other wicked angels who were eventually cast down to the earth (Rev. 12:7-9). Nevertheless, in spite of their defeat, the fallen angels continued to fight against the Church throughout the centuries. They will continue to do so until their definitive and final defeat at the end of time.
In the Book of Daniel, we see Michael defending the people of God (Dn. 10:13; 12:1). He is still our defender against the attacks of the devil. Many do not want to admit the evil work of the devil. But, there are times when this work is expressed with great force. No devil can make a person do something unwillingly. Yet, Satan and each devil can tempt us and try to cause confusion and to wreak havoc. They have nothing but hatred for God and for us.
We need not fear. God is all powerful. Michael loves God perfectly, and he loves us. He is our ally. We should always remain close to God and call upon Saint Michael for our protection and for the protection of the Church. We know that Satan is no match for Saint Michael.
The Saints and Angels not only intercede for us, but they also give us example of how to live. Saint Michael gives us the great example of serving God courageously. The wicked angels decided not to serve God, but to revolt. Saint Michael could have chosen to rebel with the other fallen angels. But he chose the right way. Let us follow his example and resist the temptation to disobey our Father. May we try our best to serve God just as Saint Michael does.
This Wednesday will be the feast day of Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel and Saint Raphael. We are happy to give special honor to Saint Michael because he is the patron of our parish. I have prayed to him every day, and continue to do so, for this parish that bears his name. I know that he has been beseeching God for us because we see the results of it. We have come a long way over the last seven years. So, we will have a special Mass on the 29th at 7:00 PM in thanksgiving for all that God has given us in Saint Michael's.
Also, let us pray to St. Michael to defend the Church and us by saying the prayer that most of us learned:
Saint Michael defend us in battle and be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God restrain him, we humbly pray. And do you, O prince of the heavenly host, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who roam through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.Father Stanley
