Our Patron Saint - Archangel Michael

All the Angels, according to the Apostle Paul, are ministering spirits, - sent forth to minister to them who shall be heirs of salvation - (Heb. 1:14). God set them as overseers of every nation and people, and guides to that which is profitable (Deut. 32:8); and while one Angel is appointed to oversee each nation as a whole, one is also appointed to protect each Christian individually. He commands them to guard them that hope on Him, that nothing should harm them, neither should any evil draw nigh to their dwelling (Ps. 90:10-12). In the Heavens they always behold the face of God, sending up to Him the thrice-holy hymn and interceding with Him in our behalf, seeing they rejoice over one sinner that repents (Esaias 6:2-3; Matt. 18:10; Luke 15:7). In a word, they have served God in so many ways for our benefit, that the pages of Holy Scripture are filled with the histories thereof. It is for these reasons that the Orthodox Catholic Church, wisely honouring these divine ministers, our protectors and guardians, celebrates today the present Synaxis that is, our coming together in assembly for their common feast to chant their praises, especially for the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, who are mentioned in the Scriptures by name. The name Michael means "Who is like God?" and Gabriel means "God is mighty." The number of Angels is not defined in the divine Scriptures, where Daniel says that thousands of thousands ministered before Him, and ten thousands of ten thousands attended upon Him -(Dan. 7:10). But all of them are divided into nine orders which are called Thrones, Cherubim, Seraphim, Dominions, Powers, Authorities, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels.

 

Apolytikion of Synaxis of the Archangels

Fourth Tone

Supreme Commanders of the Hosts of the Heavens, we, the unworthy, implore and beseech You that by Your supplications You encircle us in the shelter of the wings of Your immaterial glory, guarding us who now fall down and cry to You with fervor: Deliver us from dangers of all kinds, as the great marshals of the heavenly hosts on high.

Kontakion of Synaxis of the Archangels

Second Tone

Supreme Commanders of God and ministers of the Divine glory, guides of men and leaders of the bodiless hosts: Ask for what is to our profit and for great mercy, since you are Supreme Commanders of the bodiless hosts.