September 29. St Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, archangels.  There is a lot of interest in angels in popular culture nowadays. Fr James explained. “Angels and spirits are mentioned in various places in the Bible.  Angels are creatures of God and they are given different tasks by God. They are also honoured in different cultures in different ways, while the whole spirit world is dealt with differently too. One popular Catholic devotion, from the book of Revelation, is the prayer to St Michael the archangel as defender against the devil and his lies and evil plans.  Other archangels, mentioned by name are Gabriel, God’s messenger bringing good news, and Raphael, the healer in the book of Tobit, which is found in Catholic bibles.    “I have always been interested in angels and think that all the angels have something to contribute to our family life.” Mom said, “We did pray to St Michael and St Raphael when we were having a difficult time. We prayed for deliverance from evil and for healing. And I do believe that they helped us. “    

Scripture: Jesus said, “Truly, truly I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”  John 1:51. O God, who dispose in marvellous order ministries both angelic and human, graciously grant that our life on earth may be defended by those who watch over us as they minister perpetually to you in heaven.  Opening prayer of the Mass.  Pope Francis. We are journeying towards the Sabbath of eternity, the new Jerusalem, towards our common home in heaven.  LS 243    

ECO-TIP AND PRAYER:  God speaks to us through his messengers who take different forms.  The beauty of nature, animals, plants and flowers speak of God. Angels can teach us how to give glory to God as they did at Jesus’ birth. Join with them in praying Glory be to the Father .