In our reflections we will draw on the thoughts of Blessed Fr. Bronisław Markiewicz, who chose the Archangel Michael as the patron of the work, which, inspired by the Holy Spirit, he brought to existence – Congregations of St. Michael the Archangel.
The very word patron comes from the Latin word pater – father – and means a guardian, protector of people as well as certain places and an advocate in various matters before God. His intercession concerns both spiritual and material matters. Therefore, the patron is more than a spiritual role model. Above all, he is the one who acts, supporting those who search for his help. Therefore, intercession and action are the main features of support.
According to the testimony of prophet Daniel, Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Augustine and others – writes Fr. Markiewicz in the Spiritual Exercises – Saint Michael the Archangel is in heaven the prince and commander of all the heavenly hosts, as well as the leader in the Kingdom of Heaven, and on earth he is the great prince of God’s people and protector of the Holy Church.
Choosing St. Michael, the blessed founder had great hopes for him. He understood that the patron is not only the one to be venerated, but also someone who you can always count on. In this practical vision of the devotion to the Archangel, he shows the specific task he performs towards people entrusted to him. He spoke about it this way:
He dedicates a separate guardian angel to each soul, He watches over each and protects it in the fight against powers of hell, he is a sure guide for those who err; comfort and refreshment for the fallen; protector and comforter of the afflicted; a brave slayer of hellish spirits and scandalizers living on earth; he is the friend and protector of people descending from this world, and even after leaving this earth, he leads them to heaven and presents them to the throne of God.
The need for veneration and devotion to Saint Michael the Archangel, is an answer, explained Bl. Bronisław, to the intensification of evil in those times. He judged them as a period of fierce battle of infernal powers, audacious and cunning opposition to God and even a heroic battle between good and evil. It sounds familiar even today.
Should not the devotion of Saint Michael the Archangel be renewed today then? Let us choose him again as our patron. Turn with special devotion and in a very personal way to St. Michael, commander of the army of heaven and the conqueror of evil angels, who, after the Blessed Virgin Mary takes first place in Heaven and also, right after Her, has the greatest impact on the fate of the world.
Let us accept the above encouragements of blessed Fr. Bronislaw and make it happen in our lives.
Fr. Rafał Kamiński CSMA
