SAINT RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
“For I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand and serve before the glory of the Lord.”
- Tobit 12:15
Saint Raphael the Archangel is one of the three archangels whose names are revealed in Sacred Scripture, together with Saint Michael and Saint Gabriel. His name means “God heals.” Sent by the Lord, Raphael accompanied the young Tobias on his journey, protected him from danger, delivered Sarah from the oppression of the evil one, and restored Tobit’s sight. Through his mission, God revealed that He is the true source of healing, protection, guidance, and hope (Tobit 3–12).
The Catholic Church honors Saint Raphael as the patron of travelers, the sick, the blind, physicians, nurses, pharmacists, caregivers, and all who seek God’s healing and direction.
PRAYER TO SAINT RAPHAEL THE ARCHANGEL
O glorious Saint Raphael,
faithful servant of the Most High and mighty prince of the heavenly court, I praise God for the grace and holiness with which He adorned you. Your very name proclaims the mercy of the Lord: “God heals.”
You were sent by God to guide Tobias safely on his journey, to protect him from danger, to restore sight to Tobit, and to bring peace and deliverance to Sarah. Be my guide and protector on the pilgrimage of this earthly life.
Walk beside me in moments of uncertainty. Lead me away from every path that separates me from God and direct my steps toward His holy will. Guard me from every visible and invisible danger, from temptation, deception, discouragement, and the snares of the evil one.
Heavenly physician, intercede for all who are sick in body, mind, or soul. Obtain from the Lord healing according to His holy will. Comfort those who suffer in silence, strengthen the weak, encourage the fearful, console the grieving, and bring hope to those who feel abandoned.
Watch over all travelers, refugees, missionaries, and pilgrims. Protect physicians, nurses, pharmacists, emergency workers, and all who dedicate their lives to caring for the suffering. Grant them wisdom, compassion, and perseverance in their service.
Help us to live in the grace of God through frequent Confession, reverent reception of the Holy Eucharist, faithful prayer, and loving obedience to Christ and His Church. Keep us close to the Blessed Virgin Mary, that under her maternal care we may grow daily in holiness.
When our earthly journey is complete, lead us safely to our heavenly home, where we may join the angels and saints in praising the Most Holy Trinity forever.
Saint Raphael the Archangel, heavenly guide, faithful companion, and minister of God’s healing, pray for us.
Saint Raphael the Archangel, defend us in our pilgrimage to eternal life.
Saint Raphael the Archangel, obtain for us the grace to persevere in faith, hope, and charity until we behold the face of God.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen. 🙏