Sacred Stones, Sacred Stories

At the end of Eucharist this morning, the priest concluded the celebration with the following prayer after communion:

 “Having been nourished with heavenly Bread,

we, beseech you humbly, O Lord,

that, drawing from it new strength,

under the faithful protection of your Angels,

we may advance boldly along the way of salvation.”

 It is a calming and reassuring moment when I call upon my guardian angel and upon Michael the Archangel.  The humblest and simplest prayer I know for this efficacious grace comes from a prayer that some of the smallest children learn in Catholic schools.  May it bring you the strength you need in time of temptation.

“Angel of God, my guardian dear,

to whom God’s love commits thee here.

Ever this day be at my side;

to light and guard, to rule and guide.”

Archangels with Tobias by Francesco Botticini

Today is the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.

Each of these heavenly beings has a duty: Michael to protect; Gabriel to act as a messenger between earth and heaven; and Raphael to heal.

Prayer to St. Michael

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.

Prayer to St. Gabriel

Oh, Blessed Archangel Gabriel, we beseech you, to intercede for us in our necessities at the throne of Divine Mercy, that you who made known to Mary the Mystery of the Incarnation, through your prayers and intercession in heaven, may obtain for us the benefits of heaven that we may sing the praise of God forever in the land of the living. Amen.

Prayer to St. Raphael

St. Raphael,
Of the glorious seven
Who stand before the throne
Of Him who lives and reigns,
Angel of Health!
The Lord has filled your hand
With balm from heaven
To soothe or cure our pains
Heal or cure
The victim of disease,
And guide our steps
When doubtful of our ways!
Amen.