A listing of prayers and devotions to St. Raphael the Archangel for his powerful prayers and intercession. As Catholics, we believe in the intercession of the saints, who readily pray and assist us from Heaven.
St. Raphael the Archangel is one of the three principal angels venerated in Abrahamic religions, best known for his healing powers and his role in the Book of Tobit in the Old Testament. In this biblical account, Raphael appears in human form as a traveling companion to Tobit’s son Tobias, helping him find a cure for his father’s blindness and assisting in driving away a demon that had killed the previous seven husbands of Sarah, who would become Tobias’s wife. His name means “God has healed” in Hebrew, and he is often depicted carrying a staff and a fish, referring to the fish whose organs were used to heal Tobit’s blindness in the biblical narrative. While Michael is known as the warrior angel and Gabriel as the messenger, Raphael is recognized as the angel of healing, travelers, matchmaking, and joyful meetings. In Catholic tradition, he is one of only three angels mentioned by name in the canonical scriptures and is traditionally invoked for healing and safe travel.
Soar through the celestial realms as we unveil the awe-inspiring might of Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael—divine warriors, cosmic messengers, and ethereal healers who stand ready to illuminate our lives with heavenly grace and power.
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In the realm of celestial beings, archangels hold a special place of reverence and significance. These powerful messengers of God play crucial roles in the divine plan, offering guidance, protection, and healing to humanity.
The Catholic Church, in particular, encourages believers to call upon these celestial guardians for their strength and intercession. Let’s delve into the world of archangels, focusing on the three most renowned: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael.
What Are Archangels?
Archangels are a distinguished subset of angels, occupying an elevated rank within the celestial hierarchy. They are entrusted with significant responsibilities and serve as direct messengers of God. Their very existence bridges the gap between the divine and mortal realms, carrying out God’s will and intervening in human affairs when called upon.
The Triad of Celestial Guardians
While countless angels exist, the Catholic tradition places special emphasis on three archangels, each with a unique mission and set of attributes:
St. Michael: The Celestial Warrior
Name Meaning: “Who is like God?”
St. Michael, often depicted as a valiant warrior, stands as the embodiment of courage and righteousness. Scripture portrays him as the commander of the heavenly host, famously casting Satan and his rebellious angels out of heaven. This powerful archangel serves as:
The defender of the Church and humanity against evil forces
A symbol of unwavering loyalty and dedication to God’s will
A source of strength and protection in times of spiritual warfare
Believers often invoke St. Michael’s name when facing temptation or spiritual struggles, drawing upon his fierce devotion to God for support.
St. Gabriel’s role as the celestial herald has made him one of the most recognized archangels. His appearances in Scripture mark pivotal moments in salvation history:
Announcing the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah
Delivering the momentous news to the Virgin Mary of her divine selection to bear the Son of God
Gabriel’s name emphasizes the strength derived from God, highlighting his role as the bearer of divine messages and revelations. He stands as a powerful symbol of God’s direct communication with humanity, bridging the gap between heaven and earth.
St. Raphael: The Healing Guide
Name Meaning: “God heals”
St. Raphael’s mission of healing and guidance offers comfort to those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual restoration. His presence in the Old Testament Book of Tobit showcases his multifaceted role:
Guiding Tobiah on his journey
Helping Tobiah reclaim his inheritance
Driving out evil spirits
Facilitating healing and restoration
Raphael’s very name encapsulates his divine purpose, making him a beacon of hope for those seeking healing in any form. Many turn to Raphael in times of illness, emotional distress, or when embarking on important journeys, both literal and metaphorical.
While the Catholic Church officially recognizes these three archangels, tradition speaks of four others whose names remain unconfirmed by official doctrine. This air of mystery surrounding the additional archangels serves as a reminder of the vast and often unknowable nature of the celestial realm.
Inviting Angelic Presence into Our Lives
The Church encourages the faithful to develop a relationship with these powerful celestial beings. By invoking their names and seeking their intercession, we open ourselves to divine guidance, protection, and healing. Whether facing spiritual battles, seeking clarity in God’s messages, or in need of healing touch, the archangels stand ready to assist.
As we navigate the complexities of our earthly journey, let us remember the comforting presence of these divine messengers. Their unwavering devotion to God’s will serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the strength and support available to us through faith.
In times of trouble or joy, may we find solace in the knowledge that St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael—along with all the heavenly host—stand as our unseen allies, ready to guide, protect, and heal as we strive to fulfill our own divine purpose in this world.
St. Raphael’s role as the “Medicine of God” encourages us to approach health and suffering with the eyes of faith, recognizing that all healing comes from God and serves His divine plan.
St. Raphael the Archangel holds a prominent place in Catholic tradition as a powerful intercessor and heavenly protector. Known as the “Medicine of God”, St. Raphael’s association with divine healing and guidance has long been significant to the faithful. His role and the origins of his meaningful title offer profound insights into the nature of God’s healing power.
The name “Raphael” itself means “God heals” in Hebrew, reflecting his divine mission of bringing God’s healing power to humanity. In Scripture, St. Raphael appears most prominently in the Book of Tobit, where he accompanies Tobias on a journey and helps him heal his father’s blindness. This biblical account forms the foundation of St. Raphael’s reputation as a healer and guide. [Tobit 12:15-22]
The title “Medicine of God” attributed to St. Raphael stems from his actions in the Book of Tobit and the broader understanding of his role in divine healing. This designation encompasses several key aspects of St. Raphael’s ministry. Firstly, he is associated with physical healing, as demonstrated in his curing of Tobit’s blindness. Beyond this, St. Raphael is believed to bring emotional and spiritual healing to those in need.
Moreover, St. Raphael’s role extends beyond healing to include guidance and protection. As Tobias’s guide, he represents God’s guidance in our lives, helping us navigate challenges and find our way to spiritual and physical well-being. Many faithful also invoke St. Raphael for protection during travels and against evil, viewing him as a spiritual remedy against the dangers we face in life.
Given these multifaceted roles, it’s no surprise that many Catholics turn to St. Raphael for intercession in various circumstances. Whether facing illness, embarking on journeys, or seeking direction, the faithful often call upon his aid.
St. Raphael the Archangel’s feast day is celebrated on September 29th,along with fellow archangels St. Michael and St. Gabriel.
The “St. Raphael Healing Prayer” is an invocation addressed to the Archangel Raphael, known as the “medicine of God” and patron saint of healing. This prayer seeks St. Raphael’s intercession for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, as well as guidance in life’s journey. It references the biblical story of Tobias from the Book of Tobit, where Raphael assisted the young man on his travels. The prayer concludes with a request for a specific intention and for the grace of purity, reflecting the belief in Raphael’s role as a powerful intercessor and guardian.
Glorious Archangel St. Raphael, great prince of the heavenly court, you are illustrious for your gifts of wisdom and grace. You are a guide of those who journey by land or sea or air, consoler of the afflicted, and refuge of sinners. I beg you, assist me in all my needs and in all the sufferings of this life, as once you helped the young Tobias on his travels. Because you are the “medicine of God”, I humbly pray you to heal the many infirmities of my soul and the ills that afflict my body. I especially ask of you the favor (here mention your special intention), and the great grace of purity to prepare me to be the temple of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The “Chaplet of St. Raphael“ is a devotional invocation to Saint Raphael the Archangel, acknowledging his roles as a healer, guide, and companion. In addition to honoring Mary, the Queen of Angels, the prayer venerates the nine choirs of angels. It concludes with directly addressing Saint Raphael, recognizing him as the angel of health, love, joy, and light, seeking his intercession for healing, guidance, and spiritual support.
You are Raphael, the Healer. You are Raphael, the Guide. You are Raphael, the Companion; Ever at human sorrow’s aide.
In honor of Mary, the Queen of Angels:
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
[Pray 3 Times]
In honor of the Angels: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Archangels: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Thrones: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Dominations (*Dominions): Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Virtues: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Principalities: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Powers: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Cherubim: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
In honor of the Seraphim: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your Glory! Glory be to the Father; Glory be to the Son; Glory be to the Holy Spirit!
Saint Raphael, angel of health, of love, of joy, and light, pray for us.
* NOTE: The terms “dominions” and “dominations” both refer to the same choir of angels in Christian angelology, with the difference stemming from translation variations of the original Greek “kyriotētes” (κυριότητες) and Latin “dominationes.” “Dominions” is more common in English, especially in Protestant and some Catholic texts, while “dominations” is a direct anglicization of the Latin term, often used in traditional Catholic contexts. Both terms convey the same concept of angels who regulate lower angels’ duties and maintain celestial order. The choice between them typically depends on the specific tradition or text being followed, but they are essentially interchangeable in meaning, representing the same order of angels usually placed in the second sphere of the angelic hierarchy.
The Prayer to Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael seeks protection, guidance, healing, and support in different aspects of life by addressing each archangel according to their specific roles and attributes.
St. Michael the Archangel, loyal champion of God and His people, I turn to you with confidence and seek your powerful intercession. For the love of God, Who made you so glorious in grace and power, and for the love of the Mother of Jesus, the Queen of the Angels, be pleased to hear my prayer.
You know the value on my soul in the eyes of God. May no stain of evil ever disfigure its beauty. Help me to conquer the evil spirit who tempts me.
I desire to imitate your loyalty to God and Holy Mother Church and your great love for God and people. And since you are God’s messenger for the care of his people, I entrust to you this special request:
(Mention your petition now)
St. Michael, since you are, by the Will of the Creator, the powerful intercessor of Christians, I have great confidence in your prayers. I earnestly trust that if it is God’s holy Will, my petition will be granted.
Pray for me, St. Michael, and also for those I love. Protect us in all dangers of body and soul. Help us in our daily needs. Through your powerful intercession, may we live a holy life, die a happy death, and reach heaven, where we may praise and love God with you forever. Amen.
St. Gabriel the Archangel, I venerate you as the “Angel of the Incarnation,” because God has specially appointed you to bear the messages concerning the God-Man to Daniel, Zechariah, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Give me a very tender and devoted love for the Incarnate Word and his Blessed Mother more like your own.
I venerate you also as the “strength from God,” because you are the giver of God’s strength, consoler and comforter chosen to strengthen God’s faithful and to teach them important truths. I ask for the grace of a special power of the will to strive for holiness of life.
Steady my resolutions, renew my courage, comfort and console me in the problems, trials, and sufferings of daily living, as you consoled our Savior in His agony and Mary in her sorrows and Joseph in his trials. I put my confidence in you.
St. Gabriel, I ask you especially for this favor:
(Mention your petition now)
Through your earnest love for the Son of God-Made-Man and for His blessed Mother, I beg of you, intercede for me that my request may be granted, if it be God’s holy Will.
Pray for us, St. Gabriel the Archangel, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
St. Raphael the Archangel, great prince of the heavenly court, you are illustrious for your gifts of wisdom and grace. You are a guide of those who journey by land or sea or air, consoler of the afflicted, and refuge of sinners.
I beg you, assist me in all my needs and in all the sufferings of this life, as once you helped the young Tobias on his travels.
Because you are the medicine of God, I humbly pray you to heal the many infirmities of my soul and the ills that afflict my body. I especially ask of you for the great grace of purity to prepare me to be the temple of the Holy Spirit, and for this my special request:
(Mention your petition now)
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 victims of disease and guide our steps when doubtful of our ways. Amen.
Let us pray: Christ Jesus, You have given us archangels to assist us during our pilgrimage on earth.
Saint Michael is our protector; I ask him to come to my aid, fight for all my loved ones, and protect us from danger.
Saint Gabriel is a messenger of the Good News; I ask him to help me clearly hear Your voice and to teach me the truth.
Saint Raphael is the healing angel; I ask him to take my need for healing and that of everyone I know, lift it up to Your throne of grace and deliver us back to the gift of recovery.
Help us, O Lord, to realize more fully the reality of archangels and their desire to serve us. Holy angels, pray for us. Amen.
