These are the only angels named in Sacred Scripture. Michael (Daniel 10, 12; Jude 1:9, and Revelation 12:7-9) means “who is like God?” and he defends against anything we set as “idols” (things that take the main place in our lives that God alone should occupy). Gabriel (Daniel 8:16-17, 9:21-22; and Luke 1:11-20, 26-38) means “God’s strength” or “strong man of God.” Gabriel announced the birth of John the Baptist and Jesus. Raphael means “God heals.” He is the patron of healing, casting out evil, marriages, and travelers.
The term “archangel” here refers to a high-ranking angel in their hierarchy, not necessarily the second-to-lowest choir of angels in traditional Catholic angelology. These three are more likely in the highest ranks of their hierarchy, as Raphael explains in Tobit 12:15. Do we pay attention and invoke the aid of these archangels in recovery? These three have much to offer us in the battle, but are waiting for us to ask.
“Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil.” (Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel by Pope Leo XIII).
Reflection by Brad Farmer