St Michael the Archangel Prayer
In the Bible, St Michael the Archangel is the great prince who protects God's people and leads heaven's angels against evil. For centuries Christians have asked for his help in danger and in spiritual struggle. This section of our Christian Prayer Library gives the Prayer to St Michael, written by Pope Leo XIII in 1886, with prayers for protection, for those who serve in danger, and for the dying.
Asking the angels and saints for their prayers is part of Catholic and Orthodox tradition. Christians who pray only to God can use the prayers here that are addressed to God.
St Michael the Archangel Prayers for Protection and Strength
The Prayer to St Michael the Archangel
Pope Leo XIII added this prayer to the prayers said after Low Mass in 1886, and Catholics said it at the end of Mass until the 1960s. In 1994 Pope John Paul II asked the faithful not to forget it. The English here is a new translation from the Latin made for this page.
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Scripture reference:
Revelation 12:7 — “Then a war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back.”
A Very Short Prayer to St Michael
Saint Michael, defend me today. Pray for me and stand with me against every evil. Amen.
Scripture reference:
Psalm 91:11 — “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
Prayer to St Michael for the Protection of a Family
Saint Michael, you stand watch over God's people. Pray for my family. Guard our home, our children and our marriage from everything that would harm or divide us. When we are in danger, stand between us and the enemy. Ask the Lord to keep us faithful to him and to one another, all the days of our lives. Amen.
Scripture reference:
Daniel 12:1 — “At that time Michael, the great prince who stands watch over your people, will rise up.”
Prayer for Strength Against Temptation
Lord God, I am tired of fighting the same battles and losing them. You know my weaknesses better than I do. Give me strength to resist what pulls me away from you, and humility to come back quickly when I fall. Send your holy angels to guard me, and let Saint Michael's courage become mine. Amen.
Scripture reference:
James 4:7 — “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
Prayer for Police, Soldiers and First Responders
Catholics honour St Michael as a patron of police officers, paramedics and the armed forces.
Lord, bless all who run toward danger so that others may be safe: police officers, soldiers, firefighters and paramedics. Give them courage, sound judgement and self-control. Protect them in every emergency and bring them home to their families. Through the prayers of Saint Michael, their patron, keep them just, brave and merciful. Amen.
Scripture reference:
Joshua 1:9 — “Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Prayer to St Michael for the Dying
Saint Michael, be near [Name] as their life on earth comes to an end. Defend them in their final struggle, keep away all fear and darkness, and bring them safely into the light of God's presence. Pray for all who will die today, especially those who are alone. Amen.
Scripture reference:
Luke 16:22 — “One day the beggar died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side.”
Prayer for Michaelmas, the Feast of St Michael and All Angels
Michaelmas, the feast of St Michael and All Angels, falls on 29 September. Catholics also honour the archangels Gabriel and Raphael on that day.
Lord God, on this feast we thank you for St Michael and all your holy angels, who worship you day and night and serve your people on earth. Open our eyes to the unseen help you send us. Make us brave in the struggle against evil, and bring us at last to join the angels in praising you for ever. Amen.
Scripture reference:
Psalm 103:20 — “Bless the LORD, all His angels mighty in strength who carry out His word, who hearken to the voice of His command.”
The Prayer to St Michael is newly translated from the Latin for this page; all other prayers are original prayers written for the Piece of Holy Land Christian Prayer Library. Where you see [Name], use the name of the person you are praying for. Scripture quotations are taken from the Berean Standard Bible (BSB), which is in the public domain.
