What Is Michaelmas? 29 September: Dedication of St Michael the Archangel

What Is Michaelmas? 29 September: Dedication of St Michael the Archangel

St Michael the Archangel

 

 

The Feast of the Dedication of St. Michael the Archangel, often referred to as Michaelmas and celebrated on September 29, holds profound significance in the Catholic Church. This feast honors St. Michael the Archangel, revered as a powerful intercessor and messenger of God.

St. Michael, whose name means “Who is like God?”, is depicted in Scripture as the leader of the heavenly host. He is particularly noted for his role in the Book of Revelation, where he battles the dragon, symbolizing Satan, and protects the faithful from evil. This image of Michael as a warrior angel serves as a powerful reminder of the constant spiritual warfare that we face, reinforcing the belief that good ultimately triumphs over evil through divine assistance.

 

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The origins of Michaelmas

The origins of this feast date back to A.D. 530, when Pope Boniface II consecrated a basilica in honor of Saint Michael on the Salarian Way, approximately seven miles from Rome. The dedication ceremonies began on the evening of September 29 and continued through the following day. Initially, the feast was celebrated on September 30, but it was later moved to September 29. In the 1962 Roman Missal, the feast is still titled “The Dedication of Saint Michael the Archangel,” despite the basilica it commemorates having vanished over a millennium ago. For many English-speaking Christians, this feast is popularly referred to as "Michaelmas" (MICK-əl-məs), derived from “Michael’s Mass.”

 

On this feast day, the Catholic liturgy includes special prayers and hymns dedicated to St. Michael. At the heart of Michaelmas is the special Mass held in honor of St. Michael. The readings often focus on themes of spiritual warfare and divine protection, reinforcing the call for the faithful to remain vigilant against temptation and sin. The Litany of St. Michael is commonly recited, invoking his intercession for strength and guidance in the face of spiritual battles.

 

In 1670, Pope Clement X established the feast of the Guardian Angels on October 2, the first available date following Michaelmas. Then, in 1921, Pope Benedict XV introduced separate feasts for the Archangels Gabriel and Raphael to highlight their “divine missions” and foster greater piety. Gabriel is known for announcing the Incarnation, which initiated the Holy Family, while Raphael blessed the family of Tobias, symbolizing his role in blessing all families.

 

In the Traditional Calendar preceding 1962, the feast days were organized with St. Michael on September 29, St. Gabriel on March 24, and St. Raphael on October 24. The inclusion of St. Raphael’s feast day in the General Roman Calendar by Pope Benedict XV in 1921 marked the first formal recognition of this celebration, while St. Gabriel’s feast was established for March 24 to coincide with the Annunciation on March 25, as directed by a decree from the Congregation of Sacred Rites on October 26, 1921.

 

The Feast of St. Michael also serves as a reminder of the importance of angels in the spiritual realm. The Church teaches that angels are not only guardians but also guides who help us navigate our faith journey. Through the intercession of St. Michael, we're encouraged to seek divine protection against the forces of evil that seek to lead us astray.

 

Furthermore, this feast emphasizes the virtues of courage, justice, and fidelity to God’s will. We are called to emulate St. Michael’s bravery in defending the faith and standing against injustice. The feast invites reflection on personal struggles against sin and a renewed commitment to live according to God’s commandments.

 

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Michaelmas in Tradition

In traditional Catholic culture, Michaelmas has also been associated with various customs and celebrations. In some regions, it marked the end of the harvest season, often celebrated with feasts and communal gatherings. The feast often featured seasonal foods, including special breads and cakes, symbolizing the bounty of the earth and gratitude for God's blessings.

Additionally, Michaelmas has been seen as a time for reflection on the changing seasons. As autumn approaches, the feast serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the call for spiritual renewal. It invites believers to contemplate their own spiritual journeys and the need for protection and guidance from God.

Harvest Festivals

In many agricultural communities, Michaelmas marks the end of the harvest season, leading to vibrant harvest festivals that celebrate the bounty of the earth. Traditional dishes are prepared using seasonal ingredients, such as apples, pumpkins, and grains, symbolizing gratitude for the harvest. This culinary aspect is an important part of the celebration, with families gathering to share meals that foster a sense of community and togetherness.

One notable tradition associated with Michaelmas is the consumption of a goose. In England, it is customary to eat a Michaelmas goose, with the belief that doing so will bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year. This custom underscores the relationship between faith and daily life, emphasizing that blessings should be acknowledged and celebrated. The act of feasting together serves to reinforce family bonds and community ties, making the celebration both a spiritual and social event.

 

 

Autumn Celebrations

As Michaelmas falls at the beginning of autumn, it naturally serves as a transition into the new season. Communities often celebrate this change with various customs, including the lighting of bonfires. Bonfires symbolize warmth, light, and community spirit, providing a gathering place for people to come together in celebration. Such gatherings not only create a sense of belonging but also allow for the sharing of stories and experiences that strengthen communal ties.

In addition to bonfires, homes and churches may be adorned with autumn foliage and decorations, reflecting the beauty of the changing landscape. This practice highlights the connection between the spiritual and the natural world, inviting believers to appreciate God’s creation. The vibrant colors of autumn leaves serve as a reminder of the divine artistry in nature, prompting a sense of wonder and gratitude.

Candlelight Processions

In some regions, candlelight processions are held in honor of St. Michael. These processions symbolize the light of faith and the protective presence of the archangel. Participants often carry candles as they walk, creating a visually striking display that unites the community in a shared expression of devotion. The soft glow of the candles represents hope and guidance, signifying that divine protection is ever-present.

Such processions may also include hymns and prayers, fostering a sense of reverence and community among participants. They often take place in the evening, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection. The act of walking together in faith emphasizes the communal aspect of the celebration, reminding believers that they are part of a larger body of Christ.

Prayer and Reflection

Michaelmas is also a time for personal prayer and reflection. Many Catholics take this opportunity to engage in spiritual practices, seeking St. Michael’s protection against evil and temptation. The day invites believers to reflect on their own struggles and to recognize the need for divine assistance. For some, this may involve dedicating time to prayer or meditation, asking for guidance and strength as they navigate the challenges of life.

Some individuals may choose to go to confession around this time, embracing the chance for spiritual renewal as they prepare for the new season. This act of penance aligns with the broader themes of the feast, inviting individuals to consider their own moral journeys and the importance of striving for holiness.

Blessings and Symbolism

Traditionally, farmers may bless their tools and harvest on Michaelmas, asking for protection and guidance in their work. This practice reinforces the connection between faith and daily life, underscoring the belief that all aspects of life are under God’s watchful care. The blessing of the harvest serves not only as an acknowledgment of the year’s hard work but also as a recognition of the divine hand in providing sustenance.

The colors associated with Michaelmas—particularly white and gold—are often used in liturgical vestments and decorations. White symbolizes purity and victory, while gold represents the divine. These colors enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the feast, creating a visually uplifting experience during worship.

Community Gatherings

The communal aspect of Michaelmas is vital for fostering a sense of unity among the faithful. Families and friends often come together for shared meals, which can include traditional dishes like bread, pies, and various seasonal foods. These gatherings allow individuals to share stories of faith, reflect on their blessings, and strengthen relationships within the community.

In many cultures, children actively participate in activities related to St. Michael, such as crafts or storytelling. These activities foster a sense of wonder and curiosity about their faith, helping to instill important values and beliefs from a young age. Engaging children in the festivities ensures that the traditions of Michaelmas are passed down through generations, preserving the significance of the feast for future faithful.

 

 

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The Role of Angels

The celebration of Michaelmas also highlights the broader role of angels in our lives. Angels are messengers and servants of God, created to guide, protect, and inspire humanity. St. Michael, along with St. Gabriel and St. Raphael, represents different aspects of angelic ministry: protection, announcement of divine messages, and healing.

The existence of angels serves as a reminder of the unseen realities of the spiritual world. This fosters a sense of comfort and assurance that God’s divine providence is ever-present. Michaelmas, therefore, becomes not only a day of celebration for St. Michael but also an occasion to deepen our understanding of the spiritual realm and our relationship with God.

Through these various traditions and customs, Michaelmas offers a rich tapestry of faith, community, and gratitude, reminding the faithful of the protection and guidance available through divine grace.

We took a look at the Biblical reasons for why we to pray to angels. You can read about it in this article here.

Do you have a special way that you celebrate Michaelmas? We'd love to hear about it, or drop us your favourite prayers to Saint Michael the Archangel. Leave us a comment below - we love to hear from our readers and subscribers.

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1 comment

I pray for my granddaughter that she gets well And I know my husband is watching over us in heaven I pray to him keep watch over Alessandra

Angela Viola

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