Michaelmas and the Litany of St. Michael: A Prayer of Protection and Courage
Every September 29th, the Church pauses to celebrate Michaelmas, the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, the Archangels. It's a feast that doesn't get nearly enough hype, but it should. Because in a world that can feel like a spiritual battlefield more often than not, The Church hands us a weapon: the Litany of St. Michael.
Why Pray the Litany of St. Michael?
St. Michael's name means "Who is like God?", a battle cry against pride itself, hurled at Lucifer in the moment he tried to make himself equal to the Creator. Ever since, Michael has been the Church's defender, the one we call on when things get dark, confusing, or downright spiritually exhausting.
The Litany of St. Michael isn't just a prayer for dramatic moments. It's for the everyday battles too. The ones fought in traffic, at the kitchen table, in your own head at 2 a.m. Praying this litany can help us:
- Stand firm against temptation, calling on Michael's strength when our own runs dry.
- Grow in courage, trusting that we're never facing spiritual warfare alone.
- Remember the bigger picture, that good and evil are real, and we've got an Archangel in our corner.
How to Pray the Litany of St. Michael
Like most litanies, this one is meant to be prayed slowly, with intention and not rushed through like a to-do list. It's a great addition to a morning prayer routine, a night prayer before bed, or anytime you feel like you need backup.
Here's how to pray it:
- Begin by making the Sign of the Cross and asking St. Michael to stand with you.
- Pray the litany slowly, letting each invocation sink in rather than racing to the next.
- Close with a Hail Mary or the traditional St. Michael Prayer ("St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle...") for extra reinforcement.
The Litany of St. Michael
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, Queen of Angels, pray for us.
St. Michael, pray for us.
St. Michael, who stood up for the honor of God, pray for us.
St. Michael, who fought against the dragon, pray for us.
St. Michael, who cast Satan and his followers down to hell, pray for us.
St. Michael, defender of the Church of Jesus Christ, pray for us.
St. Michael, guardian of the faithful, pray for us.
St. Michael, protector of the champions of the people of God, pray for us.
St. Michael, glorious prince of the heavenly hosts, pray for us.
St. Michael, our advocate in the hour of death, pray for us.
St. Michael, our light and strength in the ways of God, pray for us.
St. Michael, our comforter in banishment, pray for us.
St. Michael, our protector against the wicked spirit, pray for us.
St. Michael, our helper in all needs and difficulties of life, pray for us.
St. Michael, invincible leader of the armies of God, pray for us.
St. Michael, filled with zeal for the honor of God, pray for us.
St. Michael, angel of peace, pray for us.
St. Michael, guide of poor pilgrims through this vale of tears, pray for us.
St. Michael, messenger of the everlasting decrees of God, pray for us.
St. Michael, terror of the evil spirits, pray for us.
St. Michael, faithful supporter of those who trust in God, pray for us.
St. Michael, guardian angel of the soul at the hour of death, pray for us.
St. Michael, our advocate before God, pray for us.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord. Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
V. Pray for us, O glorious Prince St. Michael.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray: O God, who in a wonderful order has established the ministries of angels and men, mercifully grant that our life may be defended on earth by the Angels who always serve and worship You in heaven, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Praying the Litany of St. Michael regularly can arm your heart with courage and remind you that no battle — spiritual or otherwise — is ever fought alone. This Michaelmas, let St. Michael stand watch over your home, your family, and your faith.
Let's Share the Journey!
Have you prayed the Litany of St. Michael before, or is Michaelmas a new feast for you? Share your favorite invocation or how you're planning to mark September 29th in the comments below. We'd love to hear how St. Michael has shown up in your life.
