What Makes Michael, Gabriel and Raphael the Church’s Three Great Archangels?

The Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael the Archangels on September 29, remembering three heavenly messengers who have distinctive roles in Sacred Scripture and Catholic tradition. Saint Michael is associated with protection and the spiritual battle against evil. In the Book of Daniel, he appears as a defender of God’s people, while the Book of Revelation describes Michael and his angels battling the dragon. For Christians, Michael represents courage, faithfulness and trust in God’s victory over evil. Saint Gabriel is especially known as the messenger of God’s good news. In the Gospel of Luke, he announces to the Virgin Mary that she will become the mother of Jesus. His role in the Annunciation highlights listening to God’s word, trust and obedience to His call. Saint Raphael is the principal angelic figure in the Book of Tobit. He accompanies Tobias on his journey, guides and protects him, and plays a role in the healing of Tobit’s blindness. Because of this biblical account, Raphael has traditionally been associated with healing, guidance and companionship. Although their missions are different, the three Archangels share a common purpose: serving God and participating in His plan for humanity. Michael points to protection and courage, Gabriel to proclamation and obedience, and Raphael to guidance and healing. The feast also reminds Catholics that angels are servants of God rather than objects of worship. Their ministry directs believers toward God and encourages Christians to remain attentive to His presence and guidance. For Catholics, the feast of the three Archangels is an opportunity to reflect on spiritual protection, openness to God’s call, healing in times of difficulty and confidence in divine guidance. Their biblical witness continues to inspire Christian devotion and faith.