October 25, 2025 • 33 mins
We trace Saint Michael the Archangel from Scripture to shrines and into everyday life, showing how his mission guards the Eucharist and strengthens the faithful against real spiritual battles. We share practical ways to invoke his protection for families, homes, and parishes and invite you to stand with us under his shield.
• Michael’s identity as defender and guardian
• Scriptural roots in Daniel and Revelation
• Meaning of Quis Ut Deus as a battle cry
• Pope Leo XIII’s vision and the Saint Michael prayer
• Apparitions and shrines at Gargano, Mont Saint Michel, and Rome
• Spiritual warfare and concrete practices of vigilance
• Protection of families, homes, and parishes
• Invoking Michael during personal and communal crises
• Insights from Origen, Basil, and Gregory the Great
• Our mission to defend the Eucharist and deepen devotion
Join us in honoring Saint Michael the Archangel. Explore our resources, shop with purpose, join a pilgrimage, and connect online. Let’s stand under Saint Michael’s shield together; visit Journeys of Faith today and take the next step on your path to sanctification.
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Episode Transcript
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SPEAKER_00 (00:00):
Hello family, welcome to Journeys of Faith
Super Saints Podcast.
Brother Joseph Fryodenhovenhere.
Be sure to look at thedescription for special
information of interest to you.
Saint Michael the Archangel,Guardian of the Faithful.
In the vast tapestry of Catholictradition, few figures stand as
resolute and awe-inspiring asSaint Michael the Archangel.
(00:23):
A warrior of divine justice, aprotector of the faithful, and a
fierce defender of theEucharist, Saint Michael's
presence reverberates throughcenturies of devotion and
doctrine.
His name, which translates towho is like God, isn't just a
question, it's a battle cry, areminder of the ultimate
authority he serves.
(00:44):
At Journeys of Faith, a Catholicnonprofit dedicated to
illuminating the wonders ofEucharistic miracles and the
lives of the saints, we turn ourgaze to this celestial guardian
with reverence and purposefounded by Bob and Penny Lord
after their transformativeencounter with the Eucharistic
(01:04):
miracle in Lanciano in 1976.
Our mission echoes SaintMichael's own to defend the
sacred, to guide the faithful,and to inspire a life oriented
toward heaven.
There's a certain grit to SaintMichael's story, a no nonsense
resolve that cuts through thenoise of spiritual warfare.
He's not just an angel floatingon a cloud with a harp, he's the
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commander of God's armies, theone who cast Satan out of heaven
with a sword forged in divinewill.
For Catholics, he's the ultimateprotector, the one we call upon
in moments of temptation andtrial.
Through our work at Journeys ofFaith, we've seen how his
intercession ties directly tothe heart of our faith, the
(01:47):
Eucharist, the source and summitof Catholic life.
As we explore his role asdefender of the Eucharist and
guardian of the faithful, weinvite you to journey with us
one heart, one mind, one spirit,with one vision toward a deeper
understanding of this heavenlychampion.
Whether through ouraward-winning books, streaming
(02:07):
videos, or pilgrimages, we'rehere to uncover the timeless
truths of our faith with SaintMichael leading the charge and
who is Saint Michael theArchangel.
Let's cut through the haze ofhistory and lore to get to the
core of Saint Michael theArchangel, a figure who stands
as a titan in Catholictradition, a warrior of divine
(02:28):
justice, and a protector whosename echoes through centuries of
faith.
If you've ever wondered who thiscelestial heavyweight is, the
answer isn't just in dusty tomesor stained glass depictions,
it's in the very heartbeat ofspiritual warfare and devotion.
Saint Michael, whose name meanswho is like God in Hebrew, isn't
your typical saint bound byearthly life and death.
(02:50):
He's an archangel, one of thechief messengers of God, and his
role is as epic as it gets.
Scripture paints him as theleader of the heavenly armies,
the one who casts Satan out ofheaven in the book of Revelation
twelve seven to nine.
Picture this, a cosmic showdown,Michael wielding a sword of
divine light, driving out theforces of darkness with a
(03:14):
ferocity that's both aweinspiring and humbling.
This isn't just a story, it's adefining moment that cements his
identity as the ultimatedefender of God's kingdom.
But Michael isn't just a warriorlocked in some distant
otherworldly battle, he's deeplypersonal to the faithful.
In the book of Daniel he'scalled a great prince who stands
(03:35):
guard over God's people, Daniel12 1.
He's the shield against evil,the one you call on when the
spiritual stakes are high.
Whether it's in the ancientprayers like the Laonine Prayer
composed by Pope Leo XIII aftera chilling vision of demonic
forces assailing the church orin countless personal devotions,
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Michael is the go-to guardian.
His presence is a reminder thatthe fight for faith isn't
abstract, it's real, raw, andoften unseen.
Dive deeper and you'll findMichael's fingerprints all over
Catholic tradition.
He's the patron of soldiers,police officers, and anyone
facing danger, physical orspiritual.
(04:18):
His image, often depicted with asword or spear piercing a
dragon, a stand in for Satan,isn't just art, it's a call to
courage.
He's the archangel who weighssouls at the last judgment in
some traditions, balancing mercyand justice with a precision
that only a divine being couldmuster.
And let's not forget his role asa guide for the departed,
(04:40):
escorting souls to heaven, acomforting thought for anyone
grappling with mortality.
So who is Saint Michael theArchangel?
He's not just a name in a prayeror a statue in a church.
He's the embodiment of God'sstrength, a relentless
protector, and a beacon of hopefor the faithful.
His story isn't over, it's alivein every plea for protection,
(05:03):
every battle against temptation,and every moment we choose to
stand firm in faith.
Call to action, join us inhonoring Saint Michael the
Archangel.
Hey there, faithful readers.
At Journeys of Faith, we're notjust about recounting the
awe-inspiring tales of saintslike Saint Michael the
Archangel.
(05:23):
We're about living out thatdevotion in real, tangible ways.
Inspired by the fierce defenderof the Eucharist and guardian of
the faithful, let's unite withone heart, one mind, one spirit
with one vision to deepen ourCatholic faith together.
Here's how you can get involvedright now.
Explore our resources, dive intoour award-winning books, DVDs,
(05:44):
and streaming videos onEucharistic miracles and the
lives of saints.
Start with our pioneering workon Eucharistic miracles,
knowledge is power.
Shop with purpose.
Visit our online religious giftshop packed with thousands of
Catholic items to strengthenyour spiritual journey.
Find something that reminds youof St.
Michael's protective might.
Join a pilgrimage.
(06:05):
Experience the sacred firsthandthrough our transformative
pilgrimages.
Walk where saints walked, praywhere miracles happened.
Connect online, tune into ourpodcasts, or join live events to
keep the faith burning bright inyour daily life.
Let's stand under SaintMichael's shield together, visit
journeys of faith today and takethe next step on your path to
(06:27):
sanctification.
Biblical foundations ofMichael's Mission.
Let's dive into the scripturalroots of Saint Michael the
Archangel's role where the pagesof the Bible crackle with divine
drama and cosmic conflict.
Michael isn't just a peripheralfigure in sacred text.
He's a heavyweight, a celestialwarrior whose mission is etched
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into the very framework of God'splan.
His name, which translates towho is like God in Hebrew, isn't
just a label, it's a battle cry,a challenge to all who defy the
Almighty.
Start with the book of Daniel,where Michael first emerges in
the Old Testament as a protectorof God's people.
In Daniel 10 13, he's called oneof the chief princes, stepping
(07:11):
into a spiritual fray to aid theangel Gabriel against the Prince
of the Kingdom of Persia, ademonic force obstructing divine
messages.
Later in Daniel 12 1, Michael isprophesied to stand up during a
time of unparalleled distress,guarding the faithful and
ensuring their names are writtenin the book of life.
(07:32):
This isn't mere poetry, it's aglimpse into Michael's
unrelenting duty as defender ofthe righteous, a role that
reverberates through history andinto eternity.
Then there's the New Testament,where Michael's mission reaches
a fever pitch in the book ofRevelation.
Chapter twelve seven to ninepaints a vivid, almost cinematic
scene.
And there was war in heaven.
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Michael and his angels foughtagainst the dragon, and the
dragon fought in his angels andprevailed not here.
Michael leads the heavenlyarmies against Satan, casting
the ancient serpent out ofheaven and down to earth.
This isn't just a skirmish, it'sthe ultimate showdown, a
defining moment where Michael'sloyalty to God and his
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protective zeal for humanity areon full display.
He's not just fighting for turf,he's safeguarding the very soul
of creation.
These biblical accounts aren'tabstract theology.
They're the foundation of why wevenerate Saint Michael, the
archangel today.
He's the guardian who standsbetween us and the forces of
darkness, the champion of theEucharist as the source and
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summit of our faith, and theunyielding protector of the
faithful in times of spiritualwarfare.
His mission rooted in Scriptureis a call to us all to stand
firm, to pray with fervor, andto trust in the power of God's
mightiest warrior, protector ofthe people of God.
In the grand tapestry ofCatholic tradition, Saint
(08:57):
Michael the Archangel stands asa towering figure, a celestial
warrior whose very name, meaningwho is like God, rings with
defiance against the forces ofdarkness.
He is not merely a symbol or adistant myth, he is the
protector of the people of God,a guardian etched into the
spiritual DNA of the faithful.
From the ancient battle inheaven, where he cast down Satan
(09:20):
as recounted in the book ofRevelation to his enduring role
as defender of the church, SaintMichael's presence is a call to
arms for every believer, areminder that the fight for
faith is both cosmic and deeplypersonal.
Scripture paints him as theultimate champion, leading the
heavenly armies with a sword ofdivine justice.
(09:41):
In the book of Daniel, he isnamed as the protector of
Israel, standing guard overGod's chosen people amidst
turmoil and oppression.
This isn't just ancient lore,it's a living truth for
Catholics today.
Saint Michael's protectionextends to the church militant,
us, the faithful on earth, whobattle daily against temptation,
(10:02):
doubt, and the cut the culturalcurrents that seek to erode
deweight the foundations ofbelief.
His intercession is a shieldinvoked in the powerful words of
the prayer to Saint Michael,penned by Pope Leo XIII after a
chilling vision of spiritualwarfare in 1884.
Those words defend us in battlearen't just a plea, they're a
(10:25):
rallying cry, a recognition thatwe're in the thick of a fight,
and Michael is on the frontlines with us.
But let's not reduce him to amere soldier.
His role as protector isprofoundly intimate.
He guards the Eucharist, thevery heart of Catholic worship,
ensuring that the source andsummit of our faith remains
untainted by evil.
(10:45):
He watches over souls at thehour of death, guiding them
through the perilous transitionto eternity, as tradition holds
he did for the patriarchs ofold.
Think about that for a second.
In your most vulnerable momentwhen the veil between worlds
thins, Saint Michael is there, asteadfast companion against the
(11:09):
snares of the enemy.
This isn't just theology, it's alifeline, a promise that we're
never alone, no matter howfierce the storm.
Across centuries, popes, saints,and ordinary Catholics have
turned to him in times ofcrisis, from the Battle of
Lepanto in 1571, where hisintercession was credited with a
(11:30):
miraculous victory againstoverwhelming odds to countless
personal testimonies ofprotection, Saint Michael's
legacy is one of unwaveringstrength.
He's not a distant relic ofstained glass imagery.
He's active, vigilant, a forcethat bridges heaven and earth.
For every Catholic family facingspiritual or worldly struggles,
(11:50):
his example inspires courage tostand firm, to defend the faith,
to protect the sacred, even whenthe odds seem insurmountable.
The battle cry Quisut Deusexplained In the annals of
spiritual warfare, few phrasescarry the raw, defiant power of
Quisut Deus, a Latin cry thattranslates to who is like God.
(12:12):
It's not just a question, it's achallenge, a thunderous rebuke
hurled by Saint Michael theArchangel against the forces of
darkness.
This isn't some dustytheological footnote, it's the
battle cry of a warrior, thecelestial equivalent of a sword
thrust straight into the heartof pride and rebellion.
Scripture and tradition paintMichael as the leader of the
heavenly armies, the one whostood toe to toe with Lucifer
(12:35):
during the great cosmicuprising.
When the fallen angel dared toelevate himself above the
Creator, it was Michael whoroared Quisut Deus, a reminder
of the unassailable truth, noone compares to God.
The phrase isn't just rhetoric,it's a weapon, a declaration of
loyalty to the divine that cutsthrough the chaos of temptation
(12:56):
and sin like a blade throughshadow.
Think of it as the ultimate micdrop in the war for souls, a
question that demands no answerbecause the truth is
self-evident, but there's moreto this cry than heavenly
bravado.
For us on earth, Kisut Deus is acall to arms, a reminder of our
(13:17):
own battles against the subtleand not so subtle forces that
pull us away from faith.
When we invoke Saint Michael,when we echo his cry in our
prayers, we're not just askingfor protection.
We're aligning ourselves withhis unshakable fidelity.
We're reminded to question thefalse idols of our age, the
voices that whisper we can beour own gods.
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Who is like God?
No one, not the fleetingpromises of wealth, not the
empty allure of power, not evenour own stubborn wills, dive
deeper into the tradition, andyou'll find this phrase woven
into the very fabric of Catholicdevotion.
It's etched into the imagery ofMichael, often depicted with a
sword or spear trampling adragon beneath his feet.
(14:00):
That's no accident.
Quis ut Deus is the soundtrackto that image, the unspoken
caption to every statue andstained glass window.
It's a reminder that Michael'sfight isn't just a one and done
event from the dawn of creation.
It's ongoing and we're part ofit.
Every time we face moralcrossroads, every time we defend
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the Eucharist or stand firm infaith, we're echoing that
ancient cry.
So when you pray the SaintMichael prayer, when you call on
him as the defender of theEucharist and guardian of the
faithful, let Kisut Deusresonate in your soul.
It's not just history ortheology, it's a living
challenge, a dare to stand withthe archangel, to fight for
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what's holy, and to rememberthat no force, no temptation, no
darkness can ever rival the onewe serve.
Pope Leo the Thirteenth and theSaint Michael Prayer.
In the annals of Catholichistory, few moments carry the
weight and mystery of Pope Leothe Thirteenth's connection to
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Saint Michael the Archangel.
The year was 1884, and the worldwas shifting under the pressures
of modernity, with secularismcreeping into the spiritual
strongholds of Europe.
It was in this crucible ofchallenge that Pope Leo XIII, a
pontiff known for hisintellectual rigor and deep
(15:27):
piety, reportedly experienced avision that would reverberate
through the church forgenerations.
According to accounts passeddown through clerical circles,
the Holy Father, while in prayerafter Mass, witnessed a chilling
dialogue between God and Satan,a confrontation where the evil
one boasted of his power todestroy the church if given
(15:49):
time.
Shaken but resolute, Pope LeoXIII turned to the heavenly
warrior who had long stood asthe bulwark against such
darkness, Saint Michael theArchangel.
From this profound encounteremerged the Saint Michael
Prayer, a spiritual weaponcrafted by the Pope himself.
Penned in urgency, the prayerinvokes the Archangel as the
prince of the heavenly host,beseeching him to defend the
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faithful in the battle againstthe wickedness and snares of the
devil.
It's a cry for protection, arecognition of the unseen war
raging around us, and atestament to Saint Michael's
unyielding role as guardian.
Pope Leo XIII mandated that thisprayer be recited at the end of
every low mass, a practice thatembedded it into the daily
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rhythm of Catholic life fornearly a century until
liturgical reforms in the 1960s.
Even then its power wasn'tdiminished.
Devotees continued to whisperits words in moments of fear or
spiritual strife.
What strikes me most about thisepisode isn't just the drama of
the vision, but the sheeraudacity of Pope Leo XIII's
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response.
Here was a man burdened by theweight of leading a global
church through turbulent times,who didn't shrink from the
darkness but confronted it headon by enlisting the might of
Saint Michael.
It's a reminder that faith isn'tpassive, it's a call to arms, a
summons to stand firm with theheavenly defender at our side.
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The Saint Michael Prayer, bornfrom that moment of divine
insight, remains a lifeline formany, a direct line to the
Archangel's intercession whenthe shadows grow long.
Major apparitions and shrines ofthe Archangel.
When you dive into the lore ofSaint Michael the Archangel,
you're not just skimming throughdusty old texts or rote prayers,
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you're stepping into abattlefield of divine
intervention, a saga ofcelestial grit that's been
etched into history throughapparitions and sacred sites.
This isn't mere mythology, it'sa living testament to the
archangel's role as a protector,a warrior, and a guide for the
faithful.
Let's unpack some of the mostpivotal moments and places where
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Saint Michael has left his mark,each a waypoint in the spiritual
journey of countless Catholics.
First up there's Monte Garganoin Italy, a rugged peak in
Puglia that's been hallowedground since the fifth century.
Legend has it, and by legend Imean a story so ingrained in
Catholic tradition, it'spractically bedrock, that Saint
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Michael appeared to a localbishop in four hundred ninety
two AD after a series ofmiraculous events involving a
lost bull.
The archangel declared the caveon the mountain as his sanctuary
a place of divine protection.
Today, the sanctuary of MonteSantangelo Sul Gargano stands as
one of the oldest and mostrevered pilgrimage sites
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dedicated to him, drawing thefaithful who seek his
intercession.
You can almost feel the weightof centuries in the damp stone
of the grotto, a tangible linkto a warrior angel who doesn't
just guard heaven but stakes hisclaim on earth.
And then there's Mont SaintMichel in France, a tidal island
(19:08):
off Normandy that looks like itwas ripped from a fantasy epic,
its origins as a shrine to SaintMichael traced back to 708 AD,
when the archangel allegedlyappeared to Bishop Aubert of
Avranchet in a dream,instructing him to build a
church on the rocky islet.
(19:29):
Aubert hesitated twice until asthe story goes, Saint Michael
pressed his finger into thebishop's skull to drive the
point home.
That urgency, that no nonsense,divine push is pure Michael.
The resulting abbey, percheddefiantly against the tides,
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became a medieval fortress offaith, a symbol of the
archangel's unyielding defenseagainst spiritual and physical
threats.
Pilgrims still trek across theshifting sands to honor him, a
reminder of his enduring call tostand firm.
Don't sleep on the apparition atCastel San Angelo in Rome
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either.
In 590 AD, during a devastatingplague, Pope Gregory the Great
led a penitential processionthrough the city.
As they prayed, he saw a visionof Saint Michael atop the
mausoleum of Hadrian sheathinghis sword, a sign that the
plague would end.
That moment transformed thestructure into a fortress of
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faith renamed Castel San Angelo,with a towering statue of the
archangel now standing guard.
It's a visceral image, Michael,the ultimate enforcer, signaling
the end of suffering with asingle decisive act.
These sights and stories aren'tjust historical curiosities,
they're active conduits ofdevotion, places where the veil
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between heaven and earth thins,and Saint Michael's presence
feels almost palpable.
They remind us that his missionisn't confined to ancient
battles or biblical pages, it'songoing, etched into the very
geography of our faith.
Each shrine, each apparition isa call to arms for the faithful
to stand with the archangel todefend what's sacred and to
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fight the good fight under hisbanner.
Saint Michael's role inspiritual warfare.
Let's cut through the etherealfog and get to the heart of the
matter.
Saint Michael the Archangelisn't just a figure of stained
glass reverence, he's theultimate warrior in a battle
most of us can't even see.
In the realm of spiritualwarfare, Michael stands as the
(21:40):
commander of God's army, acelestial general who doesn't
just fight for show but for thevery souls of the faithful.
Scripture paints him with asword of fire, a shield of
divine will, as in Revelationtwelve, seven to nine, where he
leads the charge against Satanand his fallen legion, casting
(22:02):
them out of heaven with aferocity that echoes through
eternity.
This isn't some dusty legend tonod at during mass, it's a call
to recognize the unseen warraging around us, temptation,
doubt, and despair clawing atour faith like wolves at the
door.
Saint Michael's role isn'tpassive, he's the defender who
(22:23):
steps into the breach when we'retoo weak to stand.
The Saint Michael prayer pennedby Pope Leo XIII after a
chilling vision of demonicforces assaulting the church
isn't just a plea, it's a battlecry.
It invokes Michael's protectionagainst the wickedness and
snares of the devil, a reminderthat we're not alone in this
fight.
(22:43):
But here's the kicker, Michaeldoesn't just fight for us, he
inspires us to take up our ownspiritual armor.
Ephesians 6 talks about theshield of faith and the sword of
the Spirit, and Michael embodiesthat readiness.
He's the archetype of vigilance,the one who never flinches,
never falters.
When we're wrestling with sin orthe weight of a world that seems
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to mock belief, Michael'sexample is a gut check.
Stand firm, pray hard, and trustin God's strength over your own.
His intercession is a lifeline,especially when we're guarding
the sanctity of the Eucharist orthe integrity of our faith
against forces that seek to tearboth apart.
Think of him as the ultimateally in a war that's been waged
(23:24):
since the dawn of time.
Every time we invoke his name,we're not just asking for help,
we're aligning ourselves with avictor who's already seen the
end game.
Saint Michael isn't justdefending, he's showing us how
to fight.
Guardian of families, homes, andparishes.
In the spiritual battlefield ofeveryday life, Saint Michael the
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Archangel stands as anunyielding sentinel, guarding
not just the grand cathedrals orthe cosmic order, but the
intimate corners of ourexistence, our families, our
homes, and our parishes.
Picture this a world whereunseen forces wage war over the
souls of the faithful, and atthe forefront is Michael, sword
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drawn, wings unfurled, aprotector whose vigilance never
wavers.
He's not just a distant figurein stained glass, he's the
warrior who intercedes whendarkness creeps into the places
we hold most dear.
For families, Saint Michael isthe shield against division and
discord.
In a culture that often pulls usapart, whether through the chaos
(24:28):
of modern schedules or thesubtle erosion of faith, he is
the one we call we call upon tobind us together.
Tradition holds that invokinghis name through prayer, like
the powerful Saint Michaelprayer penned by Pope Leo XIII,
can fortify the domestic church,that sacred space where faith is
first nurtured.
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He defends against the spiritualattacks that manifest as strife,
doubt, or despair, ensuring thatthe home remains a stronghold of
love and devotion.
Homes too fall under his mightyprotection.
Think of the countless storiespassed down through generations,
families who, in times ofcrisis, turned to Saint Michael
and found inexplicable peace ordeliverance, whether it's a
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whispered plea during a storm ora medal of the archangel placed
above a doorway, his presence isa reminder that no space is too
small for divine guardianship.
He stands guard over thethresholds where we live out our
faith, transforming ordinaryhouses into sanctuaries of
grace.
And then there are our parishes,the beating hearts of Catholic
community.
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Saint Michael's role as defenderextends to these spiritual hubs
where the faithful gather toworship and grow.
He is often depicted as thepatron of churches, a protector
against the forces that seek toundermine the unity of the
flock.
Priests and laity alike havelong turned to him in times of
trial, be it scandal,persecution, or the slow drift
(25:54):
of apathy.
His intercession is a rallyingcry, a call to stand firm in the
face of adversity, to defend thesacred ground where the
Eucharist is celebrated and thegospel proclaimed.
This isn't just ancient lore orpious sentiment, it's a living
reality woven into the fabric ofCatholic life.
Saint Michael's guardianship isas relevant now as it was in the
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days of old, a testament to histimeless mission.
When we entrust our families,homes, and parishes to his care,
we're not just reciting prayers,we're aligning ourselves with a
heavenly warrior whose strengthflows from the very throne of
God.
Invoking Michael in moments ofcrisis in the throes of life's
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fiercest storms when doubtcreeps in and spiritual battles
rage unseen, Saint Michael theArchangel stands as a towering
figure of hope and protection.
Catholics across centuries haveturned to this celestial
warrior, invoking his name inmoments of crisis with a fervor
that cuts through the noise ofdespair.
His intercession is not just aplea for help, it's a battle
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cry, a summons to the divinedefender who is faced down Satan
himself.
Picture this, a family huddledin prayer during a personal
calamity or an individualwrestling with temptation in the
quiet of their own heart.
In these raw, unfilteredmoments, the ancient prayer to
Saint Michael, penned by PopeLeo XIII, after a chilling
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vision of demonic forcesassailing the church, becomes a
lifeline.
Saint Michael the Archangel,defend us in battle, be our
protection against thewickedness and snares of the
devil.
These words aren't mere ritual,they carry the weight of a
spiritual sword sharpened byfaith and wielded with
(27:45):
conviction.
But invoking Michael isn't justabout reciting a prayer, it's
about aligning yourself with hisunyielding resolve.
He's not a distant figure instained glass, he's a commander
in the thick of the fight,especially when the Eucharist,
the very heart of Catholicworship, is under attack,
whether through desecration ordisbelief.
(28:07):
Historical accounts brim withstories of his intervention,
soldiers on battlefieldsclaiming to see a warrior angel,
priests feeling an unseen shieldduring times of persecution.
These aren't just legends,they're testaments to a guardian
who doesn't flinch no matter theodds.
For the faithful calling onSaint Michael in crisis is also
(28:27):
a reminder of personalaccountability.
He doesn't just fight for us, hefights with us.
The prayer, the devotion, thetrust in his intercession, it's
a call to stand firm, to defendthe faith in our own lives.
Whether it's a moral struggle, afamily rift, or a societal
assault on sacred values,invoking Michael means stepping
(28:48):
into the arena, knowing you'renot alone.
His presence, often unseen butdeeply felt, emboldens the heart
to endure, to resist, to protectwhat is holy.
Saint Michael, in the teachingsof the Church Fathers, dive into
the ancient texts, and you'llfind Saint Michael the Archangel
looming large, a celestialheavyweight in the spiritual
(29:11):
arena, as seen through the eyesof the Church Fathers.
These early theological giants,the architects of Christian
thought, didn't just toss aroundcasual mentions of Michael, they
framed him as a cosmic defender,a warrior of divine justice, and
a key player in the unfoldingdrama of salvation.
Take Origen, the third centuryscholar, with a mind sharper
(29:32):
than a Gladius, he points toMichael as the leader of the
heavenly armies, drawing fromthe book of Daniel, where the
archangel is named as theprotector of God's people.
Origen's not just riffing here,he's building a case for Michael
as the ultimate intercessorstanding between humanity and
the forces of chaos.
(29:53):
In his writings, like ContraSelsum, he ties Michael to the
to the unseen battles that hehad.
That shape our world, a reminderthat the spiritual realm isn't
some distant fairy tale, it'sraw, real, and right here.
Then there's Saint Basil theGreat, the fourth century bishop
who could preach fire into thecoldest heart.
Basil hails Michael as theguardian of the faithful, a
(30:16):
sentinel who doesn't just fightdemons but shepherds souls
toward God.
In his homilies, Basil paints apicture of Michael as the one
who escorts the departed totheir eternal rest, a comforting
presence amid the uncertainty ofdeath.
This isn't mere poetry, it's acall to trust in Michael's
protection, a theological anchorfor a flock often battered by
(30:39):
doubt and fear, and let's notskip Saint Gregory the Great,
the sixth century pope whosedialogues read like a spiritual
blockbuster.
Gregory doubles down onMichael's role as the herald of
the Last Judgment, the one whowill sound the trumpet when the
world's final chapter hits.
He's not just a warrior inGregory's view, he's a symbol of
(31:00):
God's ultimate triumph, a figurewho embodies the certainty of
divine order over the mess ofhuman sin.
For Gregory, invoking Michaelisn't just a prayer, it's a
declaration of hope, a reminderthat the chaos of this life has
an end point and Michael's gotthe front row seat.
These church fathers weren'tcrafting fan fiction, they were
(31:22):
decoding scripture andtradition, piecing together a
vision of Saint Michael that'sas much about grit as it is
about grace.
Their teachings challenge it tosee beyond the veil to recognize
Michael not as a distant myth,but as a relentless ally in the
spiritual grind, one who's beenin the fight since the dawn of
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time and isn't backing down anytime soon.
A call to stand with SaintMichael.
As we reflect on the mightyfigure of Saint Michael the
Archangel, we're reminded of awarrior who doesn't just fight
for the abstract, he fights forus, for the Eucharist, for the
very soul of our faith.
At Journeys of Faith, we'vewalked the paths of saints and
(32:05):
miracles from the awe-inspiringEucharistic wonder of Lanciano
to the quiet cloisters ofMontefalco, Italy.
Our mission, born from Bob andPenny Lord's transformative
encounter in 1976, echoes SaintMichael's own to defend and
uplift the faithful.
Let his example ignite a firewithin you.
(32:26):
Whether through ouraward-winning books, streaming
videos, or the sacred items inour religious gift shop, we
invite you to deepen yourconnection to this heavenly
guardian.
Join our pilgrimages, dive intoour podcasts, or simply pray
with us online.
Every step is a stand againstthe darkness with Saint Michael
at our side.
As we strive for sanctificationand a heaven-oriented life,
(32:50):
let's embody our motto Oneheart, one mind, one spirit with
one vision.
Together, under his protection,we march toward eternal glory.
Will you answer the call?
Thanks for listening to SuperSaints Podcast.
Be sure to click the link in thedescription for special news
(33:10):
items.
Hello family, welcome to Journeys of Faith
Super Saints Podcast.
Brother Joseph Fryodenhovenhere.
Be sure to look at thedescription for special
information of interest to you.
Saint Michael the Archangel,Guardian of the Faithful.
In the vast tapestry of Catholictradition, few figures stand as
resolute and awe-inspiring asSaint Michael the Archangel.
(00:23):
A warrior of divine justice, aprotector of the faithful, and a
fierce defender of theEucharist, Saint Michael's
presence reverberates throughcenturies of devotion and
doctrine.
His name, which translates towho is like God, isn't just a
question, it's a battle cry, areminder of the ultimate
authority he serves.
(00:44):
At Journeys of Faith, a Catholicnonprofit dedicated to
illuminating the wonders ofEucharistic miracles and the
lives of the saints, we turn ourgaze to this celestial guardian
with reverence and purposefounded by Bob and Penny Lord
after their transformativeencounter with the Eucharistic
(01:04):
miracle in Lanciano in 1976.
Our mission echoes SaintMichael's own to defend the
sacred, to guide the faithful,and to inspire a life oriented
toward heaven.
There's a certain grit to SaintMichael's story, a no nonsense
resolve that cuts through thenoise of spiritual warfare.
He's not just an angel floatingon a cloud with a harp, he's the
(01:26):
commander of God's armies, theone who cast Satan out of heaven
with a sword forged in divinewill.
For Catholics, he's the ultimateprotector, the one we call upon
in moments of temptation andtrial.
Through our work at Journeys ofFaith, we've seen how his
intercession ties directly tothe heart of our faith, the
(01:47):
Eucharist, the source and summitof Catholic life.
As we explore his role asdefender of the Eucharist and
guardian of the faithful, weinvite you to journey with us
one heart, one mind, one spirit,with one vision toward a deeper
understanding of this heavenlychampion.
Whether through ouraward-winning books, streaming
(02:07):
videos, or pilgrimages, we'rehere to uncover the timeless
truths of our faith with SaintMichael leading the charge and
who is Saint Michael theArchangel.
Let's cut through the haze ofhistory and lore to get to the
core of Saint Michael theArchangel, a figure who stands
as a titan in Catholictradition, a warrior of divine
(02:28):
justice, and a protector whosename echoes through centuries of
faith.
If you've ever wondered who thiscelestial heavyweight is, the
answer isn't just in dusty tomesor stained glass depictions,
it's in the very heartbeat ofspiritual warfare and devotion.
Saint Michael, whose name meanswho is like God in Hebrew, isn't
your typical saint bound byearthly life and death.
(02:50):
He's an archangel, one of thechief messengers of God, and his
role is as epic as it gets.
Scripture paints him as theleader of the heavenly armies,
the one who casts Satan out ofheaven in the book of Revelation
twelve seven to nine.
Picture this, a cosmic showdown,Michael wielding a sword of
divine light, driving out theforces of darkness with a
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ferocity that's both aweinspiring and humbling.
This isn't just a story, it's adefining moment that cements his
identity as the ultimatedefender of God's kingdom.
But Michael isn't just a warriorlocked in some distant
otherworldly battle, he's deeplypersonal to the faithful.
In the book of Daniel he'scalled a great prince who stands
(03:35):
guard over God's people, Daniel12 1.
He's the shield against evil,the one you call on when the
spiritual stakes are high.
Whether it's in the ancientprayers like the Laonine Prayer
composed by Pope Leo XIII aftera chilling vision of demonic
forces assailing the church orin countless personal devotions,
(03:57):
Michael is the go-to guardian.
His presence is a reminder thatthe fight for faith isn't
abstract, it's real, raw, andoften unseen.
Dive deeper and you'll findMichael's fingerprints all over
Catholic tradition.
He's the patron of soldiers,police officers, and anyone
facing danger, physical orspiritual.
(04:18):
His image, often depicted with asword or spear piercing a
dragon, a stand in for Satan,isn't just art, it's a call to
courage.
He's the archangel who weighssouls at the last judgment in
some traditions, balancing mercyand justice with a precision
that only a divine being couldmuster.
And let's not forget his role asa guide for the departed,
(04:40):
escorting souls to heaven, acomforting thought for anyone
grappling with mortality.
So who is Saint Michael theArchangel?
He's not just a name in a prayeror a statue in a church.
He's the embodiment of God'sstrength, a relentless
protector, and a beacon of hopefor the faithful.
His story isn't over, it's alivein every plea for protection,
(05:03):
every battle against temptation,and every moment we choose to
stand firm in faith.
Call to action, join us inhonoring Saint Michael the
Archangel.
Hey there, faithful readers.
At Journeys of Faith, we're notjust about recounting the
awe-inspiring tales of saintslike Saint Michael the
Archangel.
(05:23):
We're about living out thatdevotion in real, tangible ways.
Inspired by the fierce defenderof the Eucharist and guardian of
the faithful, let's unite withone heart, one mind, one spirit
with one vision to deepen ourCatholic faith together.
Here's how you can get involvedright now.
Explore our resources, dive intoour award-winning books, DVDs,
(05:44):
and streaming videos onEucharistic miracles and the
lives of saints.
Start with our pioneering workon Eucharistic miracles,
knowledge is power.
Shop with purpose.
Visit our online religious giftshop packed with thousands of
Catholic items to strengthenyour spiritual journey.
Find something that reminds youof St.
Michael's protective might.
Join a pilgrimage.
(06:05):
Experience the sacred firsthandthrough our transformative
pilgrimages.
Walk where saints walked, praywhere miracles happened.
Connect online, tune into ourpodcasts, or join live events to
keep the faith burning bright inyour daily life.
Let's stand under SaintMichael's shield together, visit
journeys of faith today and takethe next step on your path to
(06:27):
sanctification.
Biblical foundations ofMichael's Mission.
Let's dive into the scripturalroots of Saint Michael the
Archangel's role where the pagesof the Bible crackle with divine
drama and cosmic conflict.
Michael isn't just a peripheralfigure in sacred text.
He's a heavyweight, a celestialwarrior whose mission is etched
(06:49):
into the very framework of God'splan.
His name, which translates towho is like God in Hebrew, isn't
just a label, it's a battle cry,a challenge to all who defy the
Almighty.
Start with the book of Daniel,where Michael first emerges in
the Old Testament as a protectorof God's people.
In Daniel 10 13, he's called oneof the chief princes, stepping
(07:11):
into a spiritual fray to aid theangel Gabriel against the Prince
of the Kingdom of Persia, ademonic force obstructing divine
messages.
Later in Daniel 12 1, Michael isprophesied to stand up during a
time of unparalleled distress,guarding the faithful and
ensuring their names are writtenin the book of life.
(07:32):
This isn't mere poetry, it's aglimpse into Michael's
unrelenting duty as defender ofthe righteous, a role that
reverberates through history andinto eternity.
Then there's the New Testament,where Michael's mission reaches
a fever pitch in the book ofRevelation.
Chapter twelve seven to ninepaints a vivid, almost cinematic
scene.
And there was war in heaven.
(07:54):
Michael and his angels foughtagainst the dragon, and the
dragon fought in his angels andprevailed not here.
Michael leads the heavenlyarmies against Satan, casting
the ancient serpent out ofheaven and down to earth.
This isn't just a skirmish, it'sthe ultimate showdown, a
defining moment where Michael'sloyalty to God and his
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protective zeal for humanity areon full display.
He's not just fighting for turf,he's safeguarding the very soul
of creation.
These biblical accounts aren'tabstract theology.
They're the foundation of why wevenerate Saint Michael, the
archangel today.
He's the guardian who standsbetween us and the forces of
darkness, the champion of theEucharist as the source and
(08:37):
summit of our faith, and theunyielding protector of the
faithful in times of spiritualwarfare.
His mission rooted in Scriptureis a call to us all to stand
firm, to pray with fervor, andto trust in the power of God's
mightiest warrior, protector ofthe people of God.
In the grand tapestry ofCatholic tradition, Saint
(08:57):
Michael the Archangel stands asa towering figure, a celestial
warrior whose very name, meaningwho is like God, rings with
defiance against the forces ofdarkness.
He is not merely a symbol or adistant myth, he is the
protector of the people of God,a guardian etched into the
spiritual DNA of the faithful.
From the ancient battle inheaven, where he cast down Satan
(09:20):
as recounted in the book ofRevelation to his enduring role
as defender of the church, SaintMichael's presence is a call to
arms for every believer, areminder that the fight for
faith is both cosmic and deeplypersonal.
Scripture paints him as theultimate champion, leading the
heavenly armies with a sword ofdivine justice.
(09:41):
In the book of Daniel, he isnamed as the protector of
Israel, standing guard overGod's chosen people amidst
turmoil and oppression.
This isn't just ancient lore,it's a living truth for
Catholics today.
Saint Michael's protectionextends to the church militant,
us, the faithful on earth, whobattle daily against temptation,
(10:02):
doubt, and the cut the culturalcurrents that seek to erode
deweight the foundations ofbelief.
His intercession is a shieldinvoked in the powerful words of
the prayer to Saint Michael,penned by Pope Leo XIII after a
chilling vision of spiritualwarfare in 1884.
Those words defend us in battlearen't just a plea, they're a
(10:25):
rallying cry, a recognition thatwe're in the thick of a fight,
and Michael is on the frontlines with us.
But let's not reduce him to amere soldier.
His role as protector isprofoundly intimate.
He guards the Eucharist, thevery heart of Catholic worship,
ensuring that the source andsummit of our faith remains
untainted by evil.
(10:45):
He watches over souls at thehour of death, guiding them
through the perilous transitionto eternity, as tradition holds
he did for the patriarchs ofold.
Think about that for a second.
In your most vulnerable momentwhen the veil between worlds
thins, Saint Michael is there, asteadfast companion against the
(11:09):
snares of the enemy.
This isn't just theology, it's alifeline, a promise that we're
never alone, no matter howfierce the storm.
Across centuries, popes, saints,and ordinary Catholics have
turned to him in times ofcrisis, from the Battle of
Lepanto in 1571, where hisintercession was credited with a
(11:30):
miraculous victory againstoverwhelming odds to countless
personal testimonies ofprotection, Saint Michael's
legacy is one of unwaveringstrength.
He's not a distant relic ofstained glass imagery.
He's active, vigilant, a forcethat bridges heaven and earth.
For every Catholic family facingspiritual or worldly struggles,
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his example inspires courage tostand firm, to defend the faith,
to protect the sacred, even whenthe odds seem insurmountable.
The battle cry Quisut Deusexplained In the annals of
spiritual warfare, few phrasescarry the raw, defiant power of
Quisut Deus, a Latin cry thattranslates to who is like God.
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It's not just a question, it's achallenge, a thunderous rebuke
hurled by Saint Michael theArchangel against the forces of
darkness.
This isn't some dustytheological footnote, it's the
battle cry of a warrior, thecelestial equivalent of a sword
thrust straight into the heartof pride and rebellion.
Scripture and tradition paintMichael as the leader of the
heavenly armies, the one whostood toe to toe with Lucifer
(12:35):
during the great cosmicuprising.
When the fallen angel dared toelevate himself above the
Creator, it was Michael whoroared Quisut Deus, a reminder
of the unassailable truth, noone compares to God.
The phrase isn't just rhetoric,it's a weapon, a declaration of
loyalty to the divine that cutsthrough the chaos of temptation
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and sin like a blade throughshadow.
Think of it as the ultimate micdrop in the war for souls, a
question that demands no answerbecause the truth is
self-evident, but there's moreto this cry than heavenly
bravado.
For us on earth, Kisut Deus is acall to arms, a reminder of our
(13:17):
own battles against the subtleand not so subtle forces that
pull us away from faith.
When we invoke Saint Michael,when we echo his cry in our
prayers, we're not just askingfor protection.
We're aligning ourselves withhis unshakable fidelity.
We're reminded to question thefalse idols of our age, the
voices that whisper we can beour own gods.
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Who is like God?
No one, not the fleetingpromises of wealth, not the
empty allure of power, not evenour own stubborn wills, dive
deeper into the tradition, andyou'll find this phrase woven
into the very fabric of Catholicdevotion.
It's etched into the imagery ofMichael, often depicted with a
sword or spear trampling adragon beneath his feet.
(14:00):
That's no accident.
Quis ut Deus is the soundtrackto that image, the unspoken
caption to every statue andstained glass window.
It's a reminder that Michael'sfight isn't just a one and done
event from the dawn of creation.
It's ongoing and we're part ofit.
Every time we face moralcrossroads, every time we defend
(14:22):
the Eucharist or stand firm infaith, we're echoing that
ancient cry.
So when you pray the SaintMichael prayer, when you call on
him as the defender of theEucharist and guardian of the
faithful, let Kisut Deusresonate in your soul.
It's not just history ortheology, it's a living
challenge, a dare to stand withthe archangel, to fight for
(14:45):
what's holy, and to rememberthat no force, no temptation, no
darkness can ever rival the onewe serve.
Pope Leo the Thirteenth and theSaint Michael Prayer.
In the annals of Catholichistory, few moments carry the
weight and mystery of Pope Leothe Thirteenth's connection to
(15:05):
Saint Michael the Archangel.
The year was 1884, and the worldwas shifting under the pressures
of modernity, with secularismcreeping into the spiritual
strongholds of Europe.
It was in this crucible ofchallenge that Pope Leo XIII, a
pontiff known for hisintellectual rigor and deep
(15:27):
piety, reportedly experienced avision that would reverberate
through the church forgenerations.
According to accounts passeddown through clerical circles,
the Holy Father, while in prayerafter Mass, witnessed a chilling
dialogue between God and Satan,a confrontation where the evil
one boasted of his power todestroy the church if given
(15:49):
time.
Shaken but resolute, Pope LeoXIII turned to the heavenly
warrior who had long stood asthe bulwark against such
darkness, Saint Michael theArchangel.
From this profound encounteremerged the Saint Michael
Prayer, a spiritual weaponcrafted by the Pope himself.
Penned in urgency, the prayerinvokes the Archangel as the
prince of the heavenly host,beseeching him to defend the
(16:12):
faithful in the battle againstthe wickedness and snares of the
devil.
It's a cry for protection, arecognition of the unseen war
raging around us, and atestament to Saint Michael's
unyielding role as guardian.
Pope Leo XIII mandated that thisprayer be recited at the end of
every low mass, a practice thatembedded it into the daily
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rhythm of Catholic life fornearly a century until
liturgical reforms in the 1960s.
Even then its power wasn'tdiminished.
Devotees continued to whisperits words in moments of fear or
spiritual strife.
What strikes me most about thisepisode isn't just the drama of
the vision, but the sheeraudacity of Pope Leo XIII's
(16:57):
response.
Here was a man burdened by theweight of leading a global
church through turbulent times,who didn't shrink from the
darkness but confronted it headon by enlisting the might of
Saint Michael.
It's a reminder that faith isn'tpassive, it's a call to arms, a
summons to stand firm with theheavenly defender at our side.
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The Saint Michael Prayer, bornfrom that moment of divine
insight, remains a lifeline formany, a direct line to the
Archangel's intercession whenthe shadows grow long.
Major apparitions and shrines ofthe Archangel.
When you dive into the lore ofSaint Michael the Archangel,
you're not just skimming throughdusty old texts or rote prayers,
(17:42):
you're stepping into abattlefield of divine
intervention, a saga ofcelestial grit that's been
etched into history throughapparitions and sacred sites.
This isn't mere mythology, it'sa living testament to the
archangel's role as a protector,a warrior, and a guide for the
faithful.
Let's unpack some of the mostpivotal moments and places where
(18:03):
Saint Michael has left his mark,each a waypoint in the spiritual
journey of countless Catholics.
First up there's Monte Garganoin Italy, a rugged peak in
Puglia that's been hallowedground since the fifth century.
Legend has it, and by legend Imean a story so ingrained in
Catholic tradition, it'spractically bedrock, that Saint
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Michael appeared to a localbishop in four hundred ninety
two AD after a series ofmiraculous events involving a
lost bull.
The archangel declared the caveon the mountain as his sanctuary
a place of divine protection.
Today, the sanctuary of MonteSantangelo Sul Gargano stands as
one of the oldest and mostrevered pilgrimage sites
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dedicated to him, drawing thefaithful who seek his
intercession.
You can almost feel the weightof centuries in the damp stone
of the grotto, a tangible linkto a warrior angel who doesn't
just guard heaven but stakes hisclaim on earth.
And then there's Mont SaintMichel in France, a tidal island
(19:08):
off Normandy that looks like itwas ripped from a fantasy epic,
its origins as a shrine to SaintMichael traced back to 708 AD,
when the archangel allegedlyappeared to Bishop Aubert of
Avranchet in a dream,instructing him to build a
church on the rocky islet.
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Aubert hesitated twice until asthe story goes, Saint Michael
pressed his finger into thebishop's skull to drive the
point home.
That urgency, that no nonsense,divine push is pure Michael.
The resulting abbey, percheddefiantly against the tides,
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became a medieval fortress offaith, a symbol of the
archangel's unyielding defenseagainst spiritual and physical
threats.
Pilgrims still trek across theshifting sands to honor him, a
reminder of his enduring call tostand firm.
Don't sleep on the apparition atCastel San Angelo in Rome
(20:13):
either.
In 590 AD, during a devastatingplague, Pope Gregory the Great
led a penitential processionthrough the city.
As they prayed, he saw a visionof Saint Michael atop the
mausoleum of Hadrian sheathinghis sword, a sign that the
plague would end.
That moment transformed thestructure into a fortress of
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faith renamed Castel San Angelo,with a towering statue of the
archangel now standing guard.
It's a visceral image, Michael,the ultimate enforcer, signaling
the end of suffering with asingle decisive act.
These sights and stories aren'tjust historical curiosities,
they're active conduits ofdevotion, places where the veil
(20:55):
between heaven and earth thins,and Saint Michael's presence
feels almost palpable.
They remind us that his missionisn't confined to ancient
battles or biblical pages, it'songoing, etched into the very
geography of our faith.
Each shrine, each apparition isa call to arms for the faithful
to stand with the archangel todefend what's sacred and to
(21:16):
fight the good fight under hisbanner.
Saint Michael's role inspiritual warfare.
Let's cut through the etherealfog and get to the heart of the
matter.
Saint Michael the Archangelisn't just a figure of stained
glass reverence, he's theultimate warrior in a battle
most of us can't even see.
In the realm of spiritualwarfare, Michael stands as the
(21:40):
commander of God's army, acelestial general who doesn't
just fight for show but for thevery souls of the faithful.
Scripture paints him with asword of fire, a shield of
divine will, as in Revelationtwelve, seven to nine, where he
leads the charge against Satanand his fallen legion, casting
(22:02):
them out of heaven with aferocity that echoes through
eternity.
This isn't some dusty legend tonod at during mass, it's a call
to recognize the unseen warraging around us, temptation,
doubt, and despair clawing atour faith like wolves at the
door.
Saint Michael's role isn'tpassive, he's the defender who
(22:23):
steps into the breach when we'retoo weak to stand.
The Saint Michael prayer pennedby Pope Leo XIII after a
chilling vision of demonicforces assaulting the church
isn't just a plea, it's a battlecry.
It invokes Michael's protectionagainst the wickedness and
snares of the devil, a reminderthat we're not alone in this
fight.
(22:43):
But here's the kicker, Michaeldoesn't just fight for us, he
inspires us to take up our ownspiritual armor.
Ephesians 6 talks about theshield of faith and the sword of
the Spirit, and Michael embodiesthat readiness.
He's the archetype of vigilance,the one who never flinches,
never falters.
When we're wrestling with sin orthe weight of a world that seems
(23:04):
to mock belief, Michael'sexample is a gut check.
Stand firm, pray hard, and trustin God's strength over your own.
His intercession is a lifeline,especially when we're guarding
the sanctity of the Eucharist orthe integrity of our faith
against forces that seek to tearboth apart.
Think of him as the ultimateally in a war that's been waged
(23:24):
since the dawn of time.
Every time we invoke his name,we're not just asking for help,
we're aligning ourselves with avictor who's already seen the
end game.
Saint Michael isn't justdefending, he's showing us how
to fight.
Guardian of families, homes, andparishes.
In the spiritual battlefield ofeveryday life, Saint Michael the
(23:46):
Archangel stands as anunyielding sentinel, guarding
not just the grand cathedrals orthe cosmic order, but the
intimate corners of ourexistence, our families, our
homes, and our parishes.
Picture this a world whereunseen forces wage war over the
souls of the faithful, and atthe forefront is Michael, sword
(24:08):
drawn, wings unfurled, aprotector whose vigilance never
wavers.
He's not just a distant figurein stained glass, he's the
warrior who intercedes whendarkness creeps into the places
we hold most dear.
For families, Saint Michael isthe shield against division and
discord.
In a culture that often pulls usapart, whether through the chaos
(24:28):
of modern schedules or thesubtle erosion of faith, he is
the one we call we call upon tobind us together.
Tradition holds that invokinghis name through prayer, like
the powerful Saint Michaelprayer penned by Pope Leo XIII,
can fortify the domestic church,that sacred space where faith is
first nurtured.
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He defends against the spiritualattacks that manifest as strife,
doubt, or despair, ensuring thatthe home remains a stronghold of
love and devotion.
Homes too fall under his mightyprotection.
Think of the countless storiespassed down through generations,
families who, in times ofcrisis, turned to Saint Michael
and found inexplicable peace ordeliverance, whether it's a
(25:11):
whispered plea during a storm ora medal of the archangel placed
above a doorway, his presence isa reminder that no space is too
small for divine guardianship.
He stands guard over thethresholds where we live out our
faith, transforming ordinaryhouses into sanctuaries of
grace.
And then there are our parishes,the beating hearts of Catholic
community.
(25:31):
Saint Michael's role as defenderextends to these spiritual hubs
where the faithful gather toworship and grow.
He is often depicted as thepatron of churches, a protector
against the forces that seek toundermine the unity of the
flock.
Priests and laity alike havelong turned to him in times of
trial, be it scandal,persecution, or the slow drift
(25:54):
of apathy.
His intercession is a rallyingcry, a call to stand firm in the
face of adversity, to defend thesacred ground where the
Eucharist is celebrated and thegospel proclaimed.
This isn't just ancient lore orpious sentiment, it's a living
reality woven into the fabric ofCatholic life.
Saint Michael's guardianship isas relevant now as it was in the
(26:16):
days of old, a testament to histimeless mission.
When we entrust our families,homes, and parishes to his care,
we're not just reciting prayers,we're aligning ourselves with a
heavenly warrior whose strengthflows from the very throne of
God.
Invoking Michael in moments ofcrisis in the throes of life's
(26:37):
fiercest storms when doubtcreeps in and spiritual battles
rage unseen, Saint Michael theArchangel stands as a towering
figure of hope and protection.
Catholics across centuries haveturned to this celestial
warrior, invoking his name inmoments of crisis with a fervor
that cuts through the noise ofdespair.
His intercession is not just aplea for help, it's a battle
(27:01):
cry, a summons to the divinedefender who is faced down Satan
himself.
Picture this, a family huddledin prayer during a personal
calamity or an individualwrestling with temptation in the
quiet of their own heart.
In these raw, unfilteredmoments, the ancient prayer to
Saint Michael, penned by PopeLeo XIII, after a chilling
(27:24):
vision of demonic forcesassailing the church, becomes a
lifeline.
Saint Michael the Archangel,defend us in battle, be our
protection against thewickedness and snares of the
devil.
These words aren't mere ritual,they carry the weight of a
spiritual sword sharpened byfaith and wielded with
(27:45):
conviction.
But invoking Michael isn't justabout reciting a prayer, it's
about aligning yourself with hisunyielding resolve.
He's not a distant figure instained glass, he's a commander
in the thick of the fight,especially when the Eucharist,
the very heart of Catholicworship, is under attack,
whether through desecration ordisbelief.
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Historical accounts brim withstories of his intervention,
soldiers on battlefieldsclaiming to see a warrior angel,
priests feeling an unseen shieldduring times of persecution.
These aren't just legends,they're testaments to a guardian
who doesn't flinch no matter theodds.
For the faithful calling onSaint Michael in crisis is also
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a reminder of personalaccountability.
He doesn't just fight for us, hefights with us.
The prayer, the devotion, thetrust in his intercession, it's
a call to stand firm, to defendthe faith in our own lives.
Whether it's a moral struggle, afamily rift, or a societal
assault on sacred values,invoking Michael means stepping
(28:48):
into the arena, knowing you'renot alone.
His presence, often unseen butdeeply felt, emboldens the heart
to endure, to resist, to protectwhat is holy.
Saint Michael, in the teachingsof the Church Fathers, dive into
the ancient texts, and you'llfind Saint Michael the Archangel
looming large, a celestialheavyweight in the spiritual
(29:11):
arena, as seen through the eyesof the Church Fathers.
These early theological giants,the architects of Christian
thought, didn't just toss aroundcasual mentions of Michael, they
framed him as a cosmic defender,a warrior of divine justice, and
a key player in the unfoldingdrama of salvation.
Take Origen, the third centuryscholar, with a mind sharper
(29:32):
than a Gladius, he points toMichael as the leader of the
heavenly armies, drawing fromthe book of Daniel, where the
archangel is named as theprotector of God's people.
Origen's not just riffing here,he's building a case for Michael
as the ultimate intercessorstanding between humanity and
the forces of chaos.
(29:53):
In his writings, like ContraSelsum, he ties Michael to the
to the unseen battles that hehad.
That shape our world, a reminderthat the spiritual realm isn't
some distant fairy tale, it'sraw, real, and right here.
Then there's Saint Basil theGreat, the fourth century bishop
who could preach fire into thecoldest heart.
Basil hails Michael as theguardian of the faithful, a
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sentinel who doesn't just fightdemons but shepherds souls
toward God.
In his homilies, Basil paints apicture of Michael as the one
who escorts the departed totheir eternal rest, a comforting
presence amid the uncertainty ofdeath.
This isn't mere poetry, it's acall to trust in Michael's
protection, a theological anchorfor a flock often battered by
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doubt and fear, and let's notskip Saint Gregory the Great,
the sixth century pope whosedialogues read like a spiritual
blockbuster.
Gregory doubles down onMichael's role as the herald of
the Last Judgment, the one whowill sound the trumpet when the
world's final chapter hits.
He's not just a warrior inGregory's view, he's a symbol of
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God's ultimate triumph, a figurewho embodies the certainty of
divine order over the mess ofhuman sin.
For Gregory, invoking Michaelisn't just a prayer, it's a
declaration of hope, a reminderthat the chaos of this life has
an end point and Michael's gotthe front row seat.
These church fathers weren'tcrafting fan fiction, they were
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decoding scripture andtradition, piecing together a
vision of Saint Michael that'sas much about grit as it is
about grace.
Their teachings challenge it tosee beyond the veil to recognize
Michael not as a distant myth,but as a relentless ally in the
spiritual grind, one who's beenin the fight since the dawn of
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time and isn't backing down anytime soon.
A call to stand with SaintMichael.
As we reflect on the mightyfigure of Saint Michael the
Archangel, we're reminded of awarrior who doesn't just fight
for the abstract, he fights forus, for the Eucharist, for the
very soul of our faith.
At Journeys of Faith, we'vewalked the paths of saints and
(32:05):
miracles from the awe-inspiringEucharistic wonder of Lanciano
to the quiet cloisters ofMontefalco, Italy.
Our mission, born from Bob andPenny Lord's transformative
encounter in 1976, echoes SaintMichael's own to defend and
uplift the faithful.
Let his example ignite a firewithin you.
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Whether through ouraward-winning books, streaming
videos, or the sacred items inour religious gift shop, we
invite you to deepen yourconnection to this heavenly
guardian.
Join our pilgrimages, dive intoour podcasts, or simply pray
with us online.
Every step is a stand againstthe darkness with Saint Michael
at our side.
As we strive for sanctificationand a heaven-oriented life,
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let's embody our motto Oneheart, one mind, one spirit with
one vision.
Together, under his protection,we march toward eternal glory.
Will you answer the call?
Thanks for listening to SuperSaints Podcast.
Be sure to click the link in thedescription for special news
(33:10):
items.
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