Saint Michael - Chaplet
Introduction to the Saint Michael Chaplet
The Saint Michael Chaplet is a powerful devotional prayer in the Catholic tradition, dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel and the nine choirs of angels. This chaplet, approved by Pope Pius IX, invites the faithful to seek the intercession of Saint Michael and the heavenly hosts for protection, guidance, and strength. This webpage aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Saint Michael Chaplet, its significance, and how it aligns with the teachings of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Practical Guide to Praying the Saint Michael Chaplet
Step-by-Step Instructions
Praying the Saint Michael Chaplet involves a series of prayers that honor Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels. Here is a detailed guide on how to pray the chaplet:
Begin with the Sign of the Cross
"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
Initial Invocation
"O God, come to my assistance. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen."
First Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Seraphim, may the Lord make us worthy to burn with the fire of perfect charity. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Second Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Cherubim, may the Lord grant us the grace to leave the ways of sin and run in the paths of Christian perfection. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Third Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Thrones, may the Lord infuse into our hearts a true and sincere spirit of humility. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Fourth Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Dominions, may the Lord give us grace to govern our senses and subdue our unruly passions. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Fifth Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Virtues, may the Lord preserve us from evil and falling into temptation. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Sixth Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Powers, may the Lord protect our souls against the snares and temptations of the devil. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Seventh Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Principalities, may God fill our souls with a true spirit of obedience. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Eighth Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Archangels, may the Lord give us perseverance in faith and in all good works, in order that we may attain the glory of Heaven. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Ninth Salutation
"By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Angels, may the Lord grant us to be protected by them in this mortal life and conducted hereafter to eternal glory. Amen."
Pray one Our Father and three Hail Marys.
Concluding Prayers
Pray four Our Fathers: one in honor of Saint Michael, one in honor of Saint Gabriel, one in honor of Saint Raphael, and one in honor of your Guardian Angel.
Final Prayer: "O glorious prince Saint Michael, chief and commander of the heavenly hosts, guardian of souls, vanquisher of rebel spirits, servant in the house of the Divine King, and our admirable conductor, you who shine with excellence and superhuman virtue, deliver us from all evil, who turn to you with confidence, and enable us by your gracious protection to serve God more and more faithfully every day. Amen."
End with the Sign of the Cross.
Incorporating the Chaplet into Daily Life
Integrating the Saint Michael Chaplet into your daily routine can significantly enhance your spiritual life. Here are some practical tips:
Set a Regular Time for Prayer: Choose a specific time each day to pray the chaplet, such as in the morning to start your day with protection or in the evening for reflection and thanksgiving. Consistency helps build a habit.
Create a Prayer Space: Designate a quiet, comfortable space in your home for prayer. This can be a small corner with a crucifix, images of saints, and candles to create a conducive environment for contemplation.
Family Devotions: Involve your family in praying the chaplet. It can be a wonderful way to bond and grow together spiritually. Consider praying it before or after dinner, or as part of your nightly routine.
Use a Chaplet Bead Set: If you have a Saint Michael Chaplet bead set, use it to keep track of the prayers. The physical act of moving the beads can help maintain focus and devotion.
Combine with Other Devotions: Incorporate the chaplet into other prayer practices, such as the Rosary or daily Mass readings. This can enrich your prayer life and provide a well-rounded spiritual routine.
Reflect on the Prayers: Take time to meditate on the prayers and their meanings. Reflect on the virtues and qualities of the angels, and how you can emulate them in your daily life.
Seek Community Support: Join a prayer group or online community where you can share your experiences and pray the chaplet together. This provides encouragement and a sense of fellowship.
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively integrate the Saint Michael Chaplet into your daily life, fostering a deeper spiritual connection and reaping the numerous benefits of this powerful devotion.
The Origin and History of the Saint Michael Chaplet
Historical Background
The Saint Michael Chaplet, a powerful devotional prayer, traces its origins to a private revelation received by a Portuguese Carmelite nun, Antonia d'Astonac, in the 18th century. According to the tradition, Saint Michael the Archangel appeared to her and revealed this special form of prayer. The Archangel promised that whoever would practice this devotion in his honor would have, when approaching Holy Communion, an escort of nine angels chosen from each of the nine Choirs. Additionally, for those who recite the chaplet daily, he promised continual assistance from the holy angels during life, and after death, deliverance from purgatory for themselves and their relatives.
In 1851, Pope Pius IX officially approved the Saint Michael Chaplet and granted indulgences to those who recite it. This papal approval underscored the importance and efficacy of the chaplet, encouraging the faithful to seek the protection and intercession of Saint Michael and the heavenly hosts. Since then, the chaplet has been a cherished prayer among Catholics worldwide, particularly valued for its promises of angelic protection and intercession.
Saint Michael's Role in Scripture
Saint Michael the Archangel holds a prominent place in both the Old and New Testaments, depicted as a powerful warrior and protector of God's people. In the Book of Daniel, Michael is described as "the great prince who has charge of your people" (Daniel 12:1). He appears specifically in Daniel 10:13 and 21, where he assists the angel Gabriel in his battle against the prince of Persia, symbolizing his role as a defender against evil forces.
In the New Testament, Saint Michael's most notable appearance is in the Book of Revelation. He is depicted leading the heavenly armies in the war against the dragon, a symbol of Satan: "Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven" (Revelation 12:7-9). This passage highlights Michael's role as a protector and leader in the celestial battle against evil.
Another reference to Michael is found in the Epistle of Jude, where he disputes with the devil over the body of Moses: "But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, disputed about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment but said, 'The Lord rebuke you'" (Jude 1:9). This brief but powerful mention underscores Michael's humility and his reliance on God's power to defeat evil.
Throughout Church tradition, Saint Michael is revered as a mighty protector, a defender of the Church, and a leader of the heavenly hosts. His appearances in scripture and his role in salvation history make him a fitting patron for a chaplet dedicated to invoking the aid of angels in the spiritual battles of everyday life.
Structure and Prayers of the Chaplet
Overview of the Chaplet
The Saint Michael Chaplet is a unique and structured form of prayer that consists of nine salutations, each corresponding to one of the nine choirs of angels. The chaplet begins with an invocation to God, followed by a series of prayers that include the Our Father, Hail Mary, and specific invocations to Saint Michael and the angels. The chaplet concludes with a prayer to Saint Michael, seeking his protection and intercession.
The nine choirs of angels, in ascending order of hierarchy, are: Angels, Archangels, Principalities, Powers, Virtues, Dominions, Thrones, Cherubim, and Seraphim. Each salutation in the chaplet honors one of these choirs, reflecting the belief in the celestial hierarchy and the diverse roles of angels in God's plan.
Prayers Included
Initial Invocation
The chaplet begins with the Sign of the Cross, followed by a prayer to God: "O God, come to my assistance. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen."
Nine Salutations
For each of the nine choirs of angels, the following prayers are recited:
One Our Father: "Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen."
Three Hail Marys: "Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen."
Specific Invocations to Saint Michael and the Angels
Each salutation is followed by a specific invocation to Saint Michael and the corresponding choir of angels:
First Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Seraphim, may the Lord make us worthy to burn with the fire of perfect charity. Amen."
Second Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Cherubim, may the Lord grant us the grace to leave the ways of sin and run in the paths of Christian perfection. Amen."
Third Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Thrones, may the Lord infuse into our hearts a true and sincere spirit of humility. Amen."
Fourth Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Dominions, may the Lord give us grace to govern our senses and subdue our unruly passions. Amen."
Fifth Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Virtues, may the Lord preserve us from evil and falling into temptation. Amen."
Sixth Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Powers, may the Lord protect our souls against the snares and temptations of the devil. Amen."
Seventh Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Principalities, may God fill our souls with a true spirit of obedience. Amen."
Eighth Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Archangels, may the Lord give us perseverance in faith and in all good works, in order that we may attain the glory of Heaven. Amen."
Ninth Salutation: "By the intercession of Saint Michael and the celestial Choir of Angels, may the Lord grant us to be protected by them in this mortal life and conducted hereafter to eternal glory. Amen."
Concluding Prayers
After the nine salutations, the chaplet concludes with the following prayers:
Four Our Fathers: One each in honor of Saint Michael, Saint Gabriel, Saint Raphael, and the Guardian Angel.
Final Prayer: "O glorious prince Saint Michael, chief and commander of the heavenly hosts, guardian of souls, vanquisher of rebel spirits, servant in the house of the Divine King, and our admirable conductor, you who shine with excellence and superhuman virtue, deliver us from all evil, who turn to you with confidence, and enable us by your gracious protection to serve God more and more faithfully every day. Amen."
This structured sequence of prayers, invoking the aid of Saint Michael and the angels, offers a profound means of seeking divine protection, guidance, and strength in the spiritual journey.
Theological Significance of the Saint Michael Chaplet
Role of Angels in Catholic Teaching
The Catholic Church holds a profound and rich teaching on the nature and mission of angels, as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 328-336). Angels are purely spiritual beings created by God who possess intelligence and will. They are personal and immortal creatures, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures. The existence of angels is a truth of faith, confirmed by both Scripture and Tradition.
According to the Catechism, angels play various roles in God's divine plan:
Messengers of God: The word "angel" itself means "messenger." Throughout the Bible, angels are depicted as messengers of God's will, delivering important messages to individuals and guiding them (CCC 329).
Servants of God: Angels serve God by carrying out His commands and assisting in the execution of His will in the world. They are described as "mighty ones who do his word, hearkening to the voice of his word" (Psalm 103:20) (CCC 329).
Protectors of Human Beings: One of the most cherished roles of angels is their function as protectors. The Church teaches that every human being has a guardian angel assigned to watch over and guide them, helping to keep them from harm and leading them towards good (CCC 336).
In essence, angels are intimately involved in the lives of believers, aiding them in their spiritual journey and acting as intermediaries between God and humanity.
Saint Michael's Role in Salvation History
Saint Michael the Archangel holds a preeminent place among the angels, recognized as a powerful protector and leader of the heavenly hosts. His name, which means "Who is like God?", signifies his dedication to the service of God and his role in defending the Church against the forces of evil.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 334) specifically highlights Saint Michael's role in salvation history. He is depicted as the leader of the army of God in the battle against the dragon (Satan) and his fallen angels. This cosmic struggle is vividly described in the Book of Revelation, where Michael and his angels cast out the dragon and his followers from heaven (Revelation 12:7-9). This act symbolizes the ultimate triumph of good over evil and the protection of God's people.
Saint Michael's role as a protector is further emphasized in the Book of Daniel, where he is described as "the great prince who has charge of your people" (Daniel 12:1). He stands as a guardian over the people of Israel and, by extension, the Church. His intervention is seen as crucial in times of spiritual warfare, providing strength and protection to the faithful.
The devotion to Saint Michael, particularly through the Saint Michael Chaplet, aligns with these theological insights. By invoking Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels, the faithful seek to participate in the celestial battle against evil, drawing upon the heavenly assistance promised in Scripture and Church teaching. This chaplet serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the powerful aid available through the intercession of Saint Michael and the angelic hosts.
In summary, the Saint Michael Chaplet is not merely a set of prayers but a profound theological expression of the Church's belief in the active and powerful role of angels in the life of believers. It embodies the Church's trust in the protection and guidance of Saint Michael and the heavenly hosts, reinforcing the hope in God's ultimate victory over evil.
The Chaplet and Personal Spiritual Growth
Spiritual Benefits
Praying the Saint Michael Chaplet offers numerous spiritual benefits, fostering personal growth and deepening one's relationship with God. Here are some of the key spiritual advantages:
Protection Against Evil: One of the most significant benefits of the Saint Michael Chaplet is the protection it provides against the forces of evil. Saint Michael, known as the leader of the heavenly armies, is invoked to defend the faithful against spiritual and physical dangers. The chaplet serves as a spiritual shield, helping individuals resist temptations and overcome adversities.
Increased Faith: Reciting the chaplet regularly can strengthen one's faith. The prayers and meditations on the angelic choirs and Saint Michael's role in salvation history remind the faithful of God's power and the active presence of angels in their lives. This deepens their trust in divine providence and reinforces their commitment to living a life aligned with Christian values.
Personal Sanctification: The chaplet is a powerful tool for personal sanctification. Through its prayers, the faithful seek the intercession of Saint Michael and the angels, asking for virtues such as humility, obedience, and perseverance. This helps individuals grow in holiness and strive for spiritual perfection, aligning their lives more closely with God's will.
Spiritual Warfare: Engaging in spiritual warfare through the chaplet empowers believers to actively participate in the battle against evil. It provides a structured way to call upon heavenly assistance, making the faithful more aware of the spiritual dimension of their lives and encouraging them to remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith.
Testimonies and Miracles
The Saint Michael Chaplet has been associated with numerous testimonies and historical accounts of miracles, highlighting its powerful intercessory role. Here are a few notable examples:
Protection During World War II: During World War II, a group of soldiers attributed their survival to the recitation of the Saint Michael Chaplet. Surrounded by enemy forces and in a dire situation, they prayed the chaplet fervently. Despite the overwhelming odds, they reported miraculous protection and were able to escape unharmed. This story spread widely, inspiring many to adopt the chaplet as a source of divine protection.
Healing Miracles: Numerous accounts detail physical and spiritual healings attributed to the intercession of Saint Michael through the chaplet. Individuals have reported recoveries from serious illnesses, liberation from addictions, and relief from spiritual oppression after praying the chaplet with devotion and faith.
Testimonies of Peace and Comfort: Many who pray the Saint Michael Chaplet regularly share testimonies of experiencing profound peace and comfort. In times of anxiety, distress, or spiritual desolation, the chaplet has brought solace and a sense of divine presence, reinforcing the belief in Saint Michael's protective and guiding role.
Historical Accounts: Throughout history, various saints and spiritual leaders have endorsed the Saint Michael Chaplet, sharing their personal experiences and the miracles they witnessed. These accounts have contributed to the chaplet's enduring popularity and its reputation as a powerful devotional practice.
These testimonies and historical accounts underscore the transformative impact of the Saint Michael Chaplet on personal spiritual growth. They serve as a testament to the chaplet's efficacy in invoking the aid of Saint Michael and the angelic hosts, providing the faithful with a tangible means of experiencing God's protection and grace in their lives.
By incorporating the Saint Michael Chaplet into their prayer routine, individuals can tap into these spiritual benefits, fostering a deeper connection with God and the heavenly realm, and fortifying themselves against the challenges of daily life.
The Saint Michael Chaplet is a profound and powerful prayer that aligns with the rich teachings of the Catholic Church. By exploring its history, structure, and spiritual significance, the faithful can deepen their understanding and devotion to Saint Michael and the heavenly hosts. Whether seeking protection, guidance, or personal sanctification, the Saint Michael Chaplet offers a spiritual tool to grow closer to God and His angels.
Call to Action
We invite you to incorporate the Saint Michael Chaplet into your prayer life. Discover the strength and protection that comes from invoking the leader of the heavenly armies. For more resources and guides on Catholic devotions, please explore our website and join our community in faith and prayer.
References
Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 328-336, 334
Holy Bible, Daniel 10:13, 21; Revelation 12:7-9; Jude 1:9