St. Michael the Archangel in the book of Revelation leads the armies of God in battle against the forces of evil. Michael is Hebrew for “Who is like unto God?” He is typically depicted with a sword, scales, banner, and a defeated dragon. He symbolizes victory over evil; a reminder that Christians struggle with the forces of evil in the world.
To combat evil, many pray the Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel daily. The history of the prayer is a call to action. After a vision of attacks on the Church, Pope Leo XIII wrote the prayer, calling for the intercession of St. Michael to protect the Church. Prior to Vatican II, the prayer was commonly said at the end of daily Mass. In 1994, Blessed John Paul II recommended that we bringing the prayer back into regular practice to strengthen the Church.
On July 5th, Pope Francis consecrated the Vatican to the Archangel’s protection and I think we should do the same for our homes and families, the domestic church. The Devil is opposing families that are growing in faith and docility to the Holy Spirit. I am not trying to scare you, but I know that as we grow closer to Christ and His Church, we will be regularly tested by evil.
It’s time to tell Satan to go where he belongs. I wish to offer you a prayer of consecration of homes related to St. Michael the Archangel’s ancient shrine at Monte Gargano, Italy.
Consecration of Family to St. Michael the Archangel
Oh most noble Prince of the Angeles, valorous warrior of Almighty God and zealous lover of His glory, terror of the rebellious angels, and delight of all just angels, beloved Archangel Saint Michael, desiring to be your devoted servants, I, today offer and consecrate myself to you, and place myself, my family, and all I possess under your most powerful protection.
I entreat you not to look at how little, I, your servant have to offer, being a sinner, but to look with favor at the affection with which this offering is made, and remember that if from this day onward I am under your patronage, you must during all my life assist me, and procure for me the pardon of my grievous sins, the grace to love God with all my heart, my dear Savior Jesus, and my sweet Mother Mary, and to obtain for me all the help necessary to arrive to my crown of glory.
Defend me always from my spiritual enemies, particularly in the last moments of my life.
Come then, oh Glorious Prince, and support me in my final struggle, and with your powerful weapon cast far from me into hell the father of lies and proud angel that you defeated in the celestial battle. Amen.
Prayer of St. Michael the Archangel
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in 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, thrust into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.