St. Raphael the Archangel – Patron of Healing, Travelers & Guidance

ST. RAFAEL THE ARCHANGEL

St. Raphael the Archangel, whose name means "God heals," is one of the three named archangels in the Bible. Known as the patron of travelers, the sick, and medical workers, he appears in the Book of Tobit as a divine guide and healer. His feast is celebrated on September 29.

St. Raphael the Archangel is a celestial being known primarily from the Book of Tobit, a part of the Catholic and Orthodox biblical canons. His name, derived from Hebrew, means "God heals," and this encapsulates his divine mission. Raphael is recognized as one of the seven archangels who stand before the throne of God, and his presence in scripture and tradition reflects God’s compassion and healing power.

In the Book of Tobit, Raphael appears in disguise as a man named Azariah, sent by God in response to the prayers of Tobit and Sarah. Tobit, a devout and charitable man, had become blind, while Sarah was plagued by a demon that had killed seven of her previous husbands on their wedding nights. Raphael accompanies Tobit’s son, Tobias, on a journey to retrieve money owed to his father. During this trip, Raphael not only helps Tobias in practical ways but also spiritually guides him. It is Raphael who instructs Tobias to use parts of a fish to drive away the demon tormenting Sarah and to heal his father's blindness. These acts of protection, healing, and divine orchestration make Raphael a beloved figure in the Catholic faith.

Unlike saints who were human beings canonized by the Church, angels like Raphael were created by God as purely spiritual beings. Thus, they are not canonized but are venerated as part of Church tradition. Raphael’s feast day is celebrated on September 29 alongside the other two named archangels, St. Michael and St. Gabriel. This date was assigned in the Roman Catholic calendar in modern times, though historically Raphael’s feast was observed separately on October 24.

St. Raphael holds a special place as the patron of travelers, the blind, physicians, nurses, and those seeking healing. In art, he is often shown holding a staff, a gourd, or a fish—all symbolic of his role in the journey of Tobias and the healing acts he performed. His intercession is sought for physical and spiritual healing, for guidance during travels, and for protection against evil.

Though St. Raphael's biblical appearance is limited to the Book of Tobit, his theological and spiritual significance has had a lasting influence on Christian thought and devotion. His story emphasizes God’s providence and care through the unseen workings of heavenly messengers. His identity as “the Medicine of God” aligns with the belief that God works through both the miraculous and the ordinary to bring about healing and restoration.

In devotional life, many faithful pray to St. Raphael when seeking healing, embarking on journeys, or hoping for divine guidance in difficult times. He serves as a reminder of God’s nearness, mercy, and the powerful help that comes through angels sent to assist humanity in times of need.

Feast Day

29-9-

Birth Date

--(As an archangel, Raphael was not born as a human)

Died Date

--(As a spiritual being, Raphael does not die)

Canonised Date

--N/A

N/A

St. Raphael the Archangel, Healer and guide sent by God, Pray for us to walk in His light And find healing in body and soul. Lead us on our journey of faith, And protect us with your heavenly care. Amen. Amen.
ST. RAFAEL THE ARCHANGEL

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ST. RAFAEL THE ARCHANGEL

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Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
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