Dear friends in Christ
This weekend we welcome to our Parish Sr Ann Ugoh of the Daughters of Divine Love who will speak at the Masses about the Missionary work of the Church especially in Africa. There will be a second collection to support their apostolate. Please give any donations in the baskets as you leave Mass or with the contactless device or online via their website: https://www.daughtersofdivinelove.com/
Normally 29th September would be the feast of St Michael and the Archangels; sometimes referred to as Michaelmas in our country. St. Michael's presence can be traced back to early Jewish writings, particularly in texts from the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC. In these ancient texts, he is depicted as the chief among angels and archangels, responsible for guarding and caring for Israel. In Jewish tradition, St. Michael is often referred to as the guardian prince of Israel, a protector who stands ready to defend God's chosen people. He appears in the Book of Enoch as one of the seven archangels, alongside Uriel, Raguel, Raphael, Sariel, Gabriel, and Remiel. These archangels are described as standing before the glory of the Lord. St. Michael's role as a defender of faith and a warrior against evil is most vividly portrayed in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 12:7-12). Here, he engages in a cosmic battle against Satan, casting the adversary out of heaven and preventing him from accusing humanity before God. Within our Catholic Faith, St. Michael holds a special place. He is often invoked as "Holy Michael, the Archangel" or "Saint Michael" in prayers and liturgies. While not formally canonised as a saint, he is revered as a celestial being with immense significance. St. Michael the Archangel plays a crucial role in the Church as a defender of faith, protector of souls, and a symbol of divine justice. His presence and intercession are sought after in times of spiritual warfare and challenges, making him a revered figure in Catholic devotion and liturgy. Quite recently, Pope Francis suggested that the Prayer to St Michael (composed by Pope Leo XIII) which was habitually said each day after Mass, should be revived. We recite this prayer in our Parish daily as a powerful means of invoking St Michael’s protection upon us and upon our Parish Family.
Holy Michael the Archangel, defend us in the day of battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
God bless and protect you!
Msgr Kevin Hale