Feast Day: September 29
Have you ever heard the word archangel and wondered what it means?
An archangel is an angel who has been given an important mission from God. The Bible gives us the names of three archangels: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Each one served God in a different way, and each one can help us learn something about God’s loving care.
On September 29, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Let’s meet all three!
What Is an Angel?
Angels are spiritual beings created by God. They worship God, serve Him, and carry out the work He gives them to do.
Angels are not people who have died and grown wings. God created angels as a different kind of being. We cannot normally see them, but the Bible tells us that angels can protect, guide, and deliver messages according to God’s will.
The word angel means “messenger.” Everything the angels do points back to God.
Saint Michael: The Defender
Michael’s name means “Who is like God?”
Saint Michael is often pictured wearing armor and carrying a shield or sword. These symbols remind us that Michael is a defender who serves God. In the Book of Revelation, Michael leads the angels in a battle against the dragon (Revelation 12:7–9).
Michael’s story teaches us that God is stronger than evil. When we feel afraid or face temptation, we can ask God for courage and ask Saint Michael to pray for us.
Michael’s symbol: A shield or sword
Michael helps us remember: God protects us and gives us courage.
Saint Gabriel: The Messenger
Gabriel’s name means “God is my strength.”
Saint Gabriel brought some very important messages in the Bible. He appeared to Zechariah to announce the birth of John the Baptist. Later, Gabriel appeared to Mary and told her that she would become the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26–38).
Mary listened carefully and trusted God, even though she did not know exactly how everything would happen.
Gabriel’s story teaches us to listen for God’s direction. We can hear God through Scripture, prayer, the teachings of the Church, and the wise adults who help us grow in faith.
Gabriel’s symbol: White lilies
Gabriel helps us remember: God speaks to us, and we can listen with faith.
Saint Raphael: The Guide and Healer
Raphael’s name means “God heals.”
We meet Saint Raphael in the Book of Tobit. Raphael travels with a young man named Tobiah, protects him on his journey, and helps bring healing to Tobit and Sarah. Tobiah does not realize at first that his helpful traveling companion is an angel.
Raphael’s story teaches us that God can guide us one step at a time. It also reminds us that healing is a gift from God. God may care for us through prayer, family members, doctors, teachers, and other trustworthy helpers.
Raphael’s symbol: A traveler’s staff
Raphael helps us remember: God guides and heals.
Three Archangels, Three Important Reminders
- Michael reminds us that God protects.
- Gabriel reminds us that God speaks.
- Raphael reminds us that God guides and heals.
The archangels do not take God’s place. They love and serve God. When we learn about them, they direct our attention back to God’s power, wisdom, and love.
Talk About It
Use these questions at home, in a classroom, or during religious education:
- Can you name all three archangels?
- Which archangel delivered God’s message to Mary?
- Which archangel is remembered as a defender?
- Which archangel traveled with Tobiah?
- When have you needed courage, guidance, or healing?
- How can you become quiet enough to listen to God?
Free Archangels Activity Pack
Continue the lesson with the free Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael Kids Activity Pack.
The four-page printable includes:
- Short facts about all three archangels
- A matching activity
- An archangel word search
- Drawing prompts and a child-friendly prayer
[Download the free Archangels Kids Activity Pack here.]
A Prayer for Children
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for creating the angels to love and serve You.
Help me be brave like Saint Michael, ready to listen like Saint Gabriel, and caring like Saint Raphael.
Guide me, protect me, and help me bring Your love to others.
Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, pray for us.
Amen.
Simple Ways to Celebrate on September 29
- Read Luke 1:26–38 together.
- Let each child choose an archangel and draw his traditional symbol.
- Complete the printable activity pack.
- Pray for someone who needs protection, direction, or healing.
- Finish the lesson by praying, “Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, pray for us.”
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