St. Michael Novena — Day 1: Defender

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Welcome to the first day of the Saint Michael Novena. For nine days, we will pray together to the great Archangel who, by the power of God, defends the Church and every soul that calls upon him. The Book of Revelation, chapter twelve, says, Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down, that ancient serpent called the devil. Saint Michael, today I begin this novena by acknowledging the spiritual battle. It is real. It is around me. It is sometimes inside me. I am not always aware of it, but you are. You see what I cannot see. Today I ask you to defend me. Defend me from what threatens me physically. From accidents, from violence, from harm I cannot foresee. Cover me with your wings of protection. Defend me from what threatens me spiritually. From temptations that wear me down. From thoughts that pull me away from God. From influences that subtly compromise my faith. Drive them back. Defend me from what threatens those I love. My family, by name in my heart. My closest friends. The people whose lives are entrusted to me. Let no enemy reach them through the gap in my prayers. Saint Michael, you stood before God and said, Who is like God? You took the title that fits you. Michael, in Hebrew, means Who is like God? You are the angel who refused the lie that any creature could rival the Creator. Help me refuse that lie too. The lie that I can be God. That I can manage my life without Him. That I can resist temptation in my own strength. Today I bow before the One who alone is God. I pray now the prayer Pope Leo the Thirteenth gave us. 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 thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. I add my own intentions for this novena. Whatever specific protection I am asking for, in body, soul, family, or work, I name it now in my heart. Saint Michael, take these intentions to the throne of God. Tomorrow we continue. Day Two. Until then, sleep in peace under the wings of the Archangel. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.