Saint Michael the Archangel

September 29th is the Feast of Saint Michael the Archangel, or Michaelmas. The Mass held on this day replicates the dedication of Rome’s ancient Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, near via Salaria, in which the Archangel is invoked several times. Saint Michael is the patron saint of police, the military, and paramedics, and is the highest Princely seraph; the leader of God’s army.

In 1886, Pope Leo VIII mandated that the prayer to St. Michael the Archangel be recited following Low Mass. There is a long version of this prayer that is utilized during exorcism, or whenever the action of satan is suspected, causing malice in men, violent temptations, storms or calamities. St. Michael is invoked, along with the Blessed Virgin Mary and Our Lord Jesus Christ, to repulse the attacks and deceits of the devil. This extended prayer may be recited by members of the Laity, or by a priest. During a solemn exorcism, which would be granted by a Bishop, the prayer is recited in Latin.

Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

September 23rd is the Feast of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina. Born to an Italian peasant family in 1887, from a very young age St. Pio saw angels and had conversations with Jesus and Mary. He joined the order of Franciscan Capuchins at the age of 15 and was ordained 7 years later. On August 5, 1918, St. Pio received the wounds of Christ (the stigmata) in his body, including a piercing in his  side. These wounds would bleed profusely when he celebrated Mass, for 50 years, until just two days before his death.

St. Pio lived his entire life for God doing good works. He built a large hospital village and performed many miracles, but he was still a victim of controversy. While there were many attempts to oppress him, this holy priest was was able to persevere and overcome. People travelled far and wide to hear St. Pio’s Mass, to receive spiritual direction from him, to confess, and to ask for his prayers. He possessed the ability to bi-locate, and numerous eyewitnesses on various continents attested to his appearance.