ST. RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL

Son of Semeias. He was a Levite and porter of the Temple (1 Chron. 26:7).

One of the seven angels constantly before the throne of God (Tob. 12:15). Under the appearance of a man, he guided young Tobias to Ecbatana, cast out the devils from Sara, and obtained her in marriage for Tobias. He received the money from Gabael, then guided Tobias safely home and cured the blindness of the elder Tobias (Tob. 5-11). His name means “God has healed.”

To St. Raphael, Angel of Happy Meetings

O Raphael, lead us towards those we are waiting for, those who are waiting for us! Raphael, Angel of Happy Meetings, lead us by the hand towards those we are looking for! May all our movements, all their movements, be guided by your Light and transfigured by your Joy.

Angel Guide of Tobias, lay the request we now address to you at the feet of Him on whose unveiled Face you are privileged to gaze. Lonely and tired, crushed by the separations and sorrows of earth, we feel the need of calling to you and of pleading for the protection of your wings, so that we may not be as strangers in the Province of Joy, all ignorant of the concerns of our country.

Remember the weak, you who are strong-you whose home lies beyond the region of thunder, in a land that is always peaceful, always serene, and bright with the resplendent glory of God. Amen.