The Saint Michael Rosary is a powerful devotion that calls upon the protection and intercession of Saint Michael the Archangel and the nine choirs of angels. This prayer can be a significant spiritual tool for those seeking divine assistance in times of spiritual warfare, personal struggles, or seeking greater protection and guidance. In this blog post, we will explore the history and significance of the Saint Michael Rosary, provide step-by-step instructions on how to pray it, and offer insights into its spiritual benefits.
History and Significance of the Saint Michael Rosary
Saint Michael the Archangel is one of the most revered angels in Christian tradition. Known as the protector of God's people, Saint Michael is often invoked in prayers for protection, strength, and victory over evil. The Saint Michael Rosary, also known as the Chaplet of Saint Michael, is a unique prayer that honours Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels.
Origin of the Saint Michael Rosary
The devotion to Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels dates back to the early centuries of Christianity. However, the specific form of the Saint Michael Rosary as we know it today was revealed to the Portuguese Carmelite nun Antonia d’Astonac in the 18th century. According to tradition, Saint Michael appeared to Sister Antonia and told her to honour him and the nine choirs of angels through this chaplet.
The Nine Choirs of Angels
The nine choirs of angels, in descending order of their proximity to God, are:
Seraphim
Cherubim
Thrones
Dominions
Virtues
Powers
Principalities
Archangels
Angels
Each choir has a specific role in the heavenly hierarchy, and the Saint Michael Rosary honors each group with a set of prayers.
How to Pray the Saint Michael Rosary
Praying the Saint Michael Rosary involves a specific sequence of prayers that are dedicated to Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pray this powerful devotion:
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin with the Sign of the Cross
Make the Sign of the Cross and say: "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."
Opening Prayers
Say the following opening prayers:
"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 Set of Prayers: Invoking the Seraphim
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Seraphim.
Second Set of Prayers: Invoking the CherubimSay one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Cherubim.
Third Set of Prayers: Invoking the Thrones
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Thrones.
Fourth Set of Prayers: Invoking the Dominions
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Dominions.
Fifth Set of Prayers: Invoking the Virtues
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Virtues.
Sixth Set of Prayers: Invoking the Powers
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Powers.
Seventh Set of Prayers: Invoking the Principalities
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Principalities.
Eighth Set of Prayers: Invoking the Archangels
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Archangels.
Ninth Set of Prayers: Invoking the Angels
Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys in honor of the Angels.
Final Prayers
After the nine sets of prayers, say four Our Fathers:
The first Our Father in honor of Saint Michael.
The second Our Father in honor of Saint Gabriel.
The third Our Father in honor of Saint Raphael.
The fourth Our Father in honor of your Guardian Angel.
Concluding Prayer
Conclude the Rosary with the following 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."
Sign of the Cross
End the Rosary by making the Sign of the Cross.
Â
Spiritual Benefits of Praying the Saint Michael Rosary
Praying the Saint Michael Rosary offers numerous spiritual benefits. Here are some key advantages of incorporating this devotion into your prayer life:
Protection from Evil
Saint Michael is known as the protector against evil forces. Praying the Saint Michael Rosary can invoke his protection and intercession, helping to shield you from spiritual and physical harm.
Strength and Courage
This Rosary is a powerful source of strength and courage. In times of personal struggle or spiritual warfare, turning to Saint Michael and the angels can provide the fortitude needed to overcome challenges and remain steadfast in faith.
Deepening Devotion
Regularly praying the Saint Michael Rosary can deepen your devotion to Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels. It fosters a greater awareness of the angelic presence and their role in God’s plan, enhancing your spiritual life.
Spiritual Warfare
Engaging in spiritual warfare through this Rosary helps to combat negative influences and temptations. It reinforces your spiritual defences and aligns you with the heavenly forces that fight for God’s kingdom.
Peace and Reassurance
The structured prayers and meditations of the Saint Michael Rosary bring a sense of peace and reassurance. Knowing that you are invoking the protection and assistance of powerful celestial beings can provide comfort and confidence.
The Saint Michael Rosary is a powerful devotion that offers protection, strength, and spiritual growth. By praying this Rosary, you can invoke the intercession of Saint Michael and the nine choirs of angels, aligning yourself with their divine protection and guidance. The structured prayers and meditations provide a pathway to deeper faith, resilience in spiritual warfare, and a profound sense of peace. Whether you are facing personal challenges or seeking to enhance your spiritual life, the Saint Michael Rosary can be a valuable and transformative practice.
References
EWTNÂ - How to Pray the Chaplet of St. Michael
Catholic Online - Chaplet of St. Michael the Archangel
National Catholic Register - The St. Michael Prayer: A Powerful Weapon Against Evil
USCCBÂ - Prayer to St. Michael
Dynamic Catholic - How to Pray the Rosary
Catholic Exchange - Prayers for Protection: St. Michael and the Angels
Comments