Raphael the Archangel
Archangel who heals and guides travelers, teaching trust in God's providence and care.
Patronage
Healing professions, physicians, nurses, travelers, the blind, those who are sick, happy meetings, young people, guardians
Virtues & Traits
Biography
Raphael the Archangel's name means 'God heals' or 'God's healing.' He appears prominently in the Book of Tobit, where he travels incognito with young Tobias to recover family treasure and find him a suitable wife. Throughout their journey, Raphael guides and protects Tobias, providing practical assistance and spiritual direction. He teaches Tobias about faith and God's providence, demonstrating that God guides those who trust in Him. Raphael heals the blindness of Tobit, Tobias's father, and arranges the marriage between Tobias and Sarah, freeing Sarah from demonic affliction. When Tobias attempts to reward him, Raphael reveals his identity as one of God's seven archangels who stands before God's throne. Raphael embodies God's healing power, both physical and spiritual, and His guidance for those who journey through life. He is venerated as protector of travelers and healer of diseases. The Feast of Michaelmas (September 29) celebrates Raphael with Michael and Gabriel, honoring all three archangels' roles in God's providence and care.
Prayer
Prayer to Saint Raphael the Archangel
O Raphael, glorious Archangel, great prince of the heavenly hosts, be thou merciful unto me in all the dangers of soul and body. Be thou my guide and guardian through the dark and dangerous paths of this life, and conduct me by thy light to eternal happiness. Defend me from all assaults of my spiritual enemies, and shield me by thy powerful intercession against all tribulations and afflictions. O great and mighty prince, I place myself under thy protection and humbly beseech thee to obtain for me from God the grace to resist all temptations, to do good, and to attain unto eternal salvation. Amen.
Traditional prayer from Catholic tradition