Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael--St. Gregory the Great

The Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael   St. Gregory the Great Early Church Father & Doctor of the Church     This excerpt from a homily on the Gospels (Hom. 32, 8-9: PL 76, 1250-1251) by St. Gregory the Great is used in the Roman Catholic Office of Readings for the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael on September 29. St. Gregory is one of the most prominent Early Church Fathers & Doctors of the Church.   You should be aware that the word “angel” denotes a function rather than a nature. Those holy spirits of heaven have indeed always been spirits. They can only be called angels when they deliver some message. Moreover, those who deliver messages of lesser importance are called angels; and those who proclaim messages of supreme importance are called archangels. And so it was that not merely an angel but the archangel Gabriel was sent to the Virgin Mary. It was only fitting that the highest angel should come to announce the greatest of all messages. Some angels are given proper names to denote the service they are empowered to perform. In that holy city, where perfect knowledge flows from the vision of almighty God, those who have no names may easily be known. But personal names are assigned to some, not because they could not be known without them, but rather to denote their ministry when they came among us. Thus, Michael means “Who is like God”; Gabriel is “The Strength of God”; and Raphael is “God’s Remedy”. Whenever some act of wondrous power must be performed, Michael is sent, so that his action and his name may make it clear that no one can do what God does by his superior power. So also our ancient foe desired in his pride to be like God, saying: I will ascend into heaven; I will exalt my throne above the stars of heaven; I will be like the Most High. He will be allowed to remain in power until the end of the world when he will be destroyed in the final punishment. Then, he will fight with the archangel Michael, as we are told by John: A battle was fought with Michael the archangel. So too Gabriel, who is called God’s strength, was sent to Mary. He came to announce the One who appeared as a humble man to quell the cosmic powers. Thus God’s strength announced the coming of the Lord of the heavenly powers, mighty in battle. Raphael means, as I have said, God’s remedy, for when he touched Tobit’s eyes in order to cure him, he banished the darkness of his blindness. Thus, since he is to heal, he is rightly called God’s remedy.   This article is available is Spanish - Click here! Follow Us - Join us on Facebook     Join us on Twitter   Click here to download, print and share Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael!     For more Catholic resources to feed your faith, visit the Crossroads Initiative Homepage.   To sign up for our free weekly e-mail with Dr. D'Ambrosio's commentary on the Sunday readings, liturgical feasts, updates on where Dr. D will be speaking, a chance to WIN a FREE CD and MORE, CLICK HERE!   For more readings from the Early Church Fathers and other classic authors on the Blessed Virgin Mary please visit the Library page.   How Mary and the Rosary Can Change Your Life by: Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio   Talk 1:  The Virgin Mary: Model of Faith Some Christians seem to neglect her; others seem overly preoccupied with her.  What is the true role of Mary in God's plan, her intended role in our lives now, and the proper form of devotion to her?  In this talk, Dr. D'Ambrosio provides enlightening and inspiring answers to these questions from Scripture, common sense and the teaching of the Church.   Talk 2: A Fresh Look at The Rosary  There is something here for everyone-- those who have problems with the rosary, and those who've read every book on the subject.  Drawing from scripture, history, Church teaching and personal experience, Dr. D'Ambrosio shares insights in this talk that will forever change the way you look at and experience this traditional devotion.   Retail CD - $18.00                             Made in Holy Land - Olive Wood Mother of Pearl Crucifix This is a beautiful 5.5" x3.5" Olive Wood Crucifix with inlaid Mother of Pearl. The pictures just do not do this piece justice -     Olive Wood Carved Head of Christ This incredible hand carved Head of Christ with Thorns is more beautiful than the picture can display. Each one is distinct and individual. The carved figure is 7 inches tall and is 4 inches wide at the base and will be an amazing piece to display in your home or to give as a gift.