Today's Feast: The Archangels!!!

Today we celebrate the feast of the archangels. Archangels!!! Definitely an occasion for an exclamation point -- or perhaps three since today we call upon this holy trio: Michael, Who is like God -- Gabriel, The Strength of God -- and Raphael, God’s Remedy (from a homily by St. Gregory the Great) !!!

Raphael is the healer, who bring us God's healing to make us fit and whole for the service of the Great King of Heaven and Earth. He brings us the healing of the King of Love so that we might love and serve Him alone, always singing His praises and always leading others to Him. Raphael, the guide of Tobias in the Old Testament, is sometimes called the Angel of Happy Meetings. There's a prayer to him that's been circulating within the church for a very long time, a poignent plea for him to lead and protect us as we make our way through this valley of tears. Raphael brings us healing by bringing us home to God. Today I ask Raphael to be our good remedy, we who so ardently yearn for full union with our Lord and with those whom we love so dearly.

PRAYER TO RAPHAEL, ANGEL OF HAPPY MEETINGS

O Raphael, lead us towards those we are waiting for, those who are waiting for us! Raphael, Angel of Happy Meetings, lead us by the hand towards those we are looking for! May all our movements, all their movements, be guided by your Light and transfigured by your joy.

Angel, guide of Tobias, lay the request we now address to you at the feet of Him on whose unveiled Face you are privileged to gaze. Lonely and tired, crushed by the separations and sorrows of earth, we feel the need of calling to you and of pleading for the protection of your wings, so that we may not be as strangers in the Province of Joy, all ignorant of the concerns of our country.

Remember the weak, you who are strong – you whose home lies beyond the region of thunder, in a land that is always peaceful, always serene, and bright with the resplendent glory of God.

Amen.