The feast of Saint Michael the Archangel is celebrated on September 29, during the Feast of the Holy Archangels, which also includes Saint Gabriel and Saint Raphael. Saint Michael is one of the three archangels named in the Bible and is known as the chief of the Lord’s army. His name in Hebrew means “Who is like God?”—a reminder of his role in defending the divine order.
Every year, from September 21 to 29, many Catholics and Christians pray a novena to Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels, asking for their protection, guidance, and spiritual support.
The Nine Choirs of Angels
According to Catholic tradition, the angels are organized into nine choirs or ranks, each with specific roles and missions. These choirs are divided into three spheres:
- First Sphere (closest to God):
Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones - Second Sphere (governing creation):
Dominions, Powers, Virtues - Third Sphere (interacting with humanity):
Principalities, Archangels, Angels
Each day of the novena is dedicated to one of these choirs in honor of their heavenly work and to seek their intercession.
9-Day Novena to Saint Michael and the Nine Choirs of Angels
The novena consists of nine days of prayer, each one focused on a specific angelic choir along with Saint Michael.
Daily Intentions and Focus:
- Day 1: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Seraphim
Intent: To receive a burning love for God, as the Seraphim are known for their fiery devotion. - Day 2: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Cherubim
Intent: To grow in wisdom and knowledge of divine truths. - Day 3: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Thrones
Intent: To develop humility and openness to God’s will. - Day 4: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Dominions
Intent: To seek strength in fulfilling our responsibilities and duties. - Day 5: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Powers
Intent: To be protected against evil forces and temptation. - Day 6: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Virtues
Intent: To grow in spiritual strength and receive the grace to do good works. - Day 7: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Principalities
Intent: To live in peace and order, guided by divine leadership. - Day 8: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Archangels
Intent: To follow the examples of God’s messengers and protectors. - Day 9: Prayer to Saint Michael and in honor of the Angels
Intent: To grow in devotion to our guardian angels and feel their presence in our daily lives.
How to Pray the Novena
Each day, follow this simple structure:
- Begin with the Sign of the Cross
- Recite a Daily Opening Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel
- Offer a Prayer to the Specific Choir of Angels for the day
- End with a Closing Prayer, asking Saint Michael and the heavenly host for protection and intercession
Here is a sample Opening Prayer:
Saint Michael the Archangel,
Defender of the faithful, protector of the Church,
come to our aid in the battle against evil.
We call upon you and the nine choirs of angels to guide and protect us.
Fill our hearts with divine strength and shield us from harm.
Amen.
And a sample Closing Prayer:
O glorious Prince Saint Michael,
Chief and commander of the heavenly hosts,
guard us in our struggles against the powers of darkness.
May your sword of light cut through all that separates us from God.
Help us walk in righteousness and peace,
now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Why Pray to Saint Michael the Archangel?
Saint Michael is one of the most powerful protectors in Christian tradition. He is often depicted in art with a sword or armor, defeating the devil. In the Book of Revelation, he leads the angelic army against the dragon (Satan), securing victory for God’s kingdom.
The Roman Breviary praises him with the words:
“There are many wonders in the Archangel Saint Michael who, strong in battle, won the victory.”
He is not only the leader of the heavenly armies, but also:
- The guardian of the Church
- A guide for souls at the hour of death
- A protector against temptation and sin
- A powerful intercessor in spiritual warfare
As Pope Leo XIII said:
“The Church venerates the guardian and protector given by God.”
Prayers to Saint Michael the Archangel
There are several powerful traditional prayers you can include in your spiritual practice:
1. Prayer of Pope Leo XIII
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle…
This short but powerful prayer is often said after Mass and is a spiritual shield against evil.
2. Prayer of Consecration to Saint Michael
Dedicate yourself and your family to his protection. This prayer asks Saint Michael to take spiritual charge over your home and life.
3. Short Exorcism Prayer
Also written by Pope Leo XIII, this is a more formal spiritual weapon to combat evil influences.
4. Litany to Saint Michael the Archangel
A series of invocations asking for his help in specific aspects of life—strength, guidance, purity, and more.
5. Prayer for Soldiers and Paratroopers
Saint Michael is the patron of those in battle, especially paratroopers. This prayer seeks his protection for those in dangerous missions.
Closing Thoughts
The novena to Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels is a powerful way to deepen your faith, grow in spiritual strength, and surround yourself with heavenly protection. Through this devotion, we are reminded that we are not alone in our struggles—God has sent His angels to watch over us, and Saint Michael leads them in battle for our souls.
May this novena bring you peace, courage, and the light of God’s presence in your life.
