Prepare for the Church’s commemoration of St. Michael the Archangel on Sept. 29 with this novena beginning on Sept. 20. Or use it at any time. This novena is especially intended to invoking the angelic prince’s intercession on behalf of the Church.

Day 1

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Secure and protect all those charged to share the faith. Help our efforts, by your prayers, to bear fruit and lead souls to Christ above all. Amen.

Day 2

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Preserve and defend our hope amid trials and darkness. Help us, by your prayers, to reflect brightly the Light of Christ in all we say and do. Amen.

Day 3

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Fortify our efforts to love more fully, especially those most marginalized and vulnerable. Help us, by your prayers, to persevere in bringing God’s love to every facet of our lives. Amen.

Day 4

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Strengthen our resolve to purify and renew our mission. Help us, by your prayers, to stay true to the life of virtue and holiness for which we are made. Amen.

Day 5

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Shelter us from the Evil One as he seeks to distract us from God’s plan. Help us, by your prayers, to adopt spiritual practices that nourish our souls. Amen.

Day 6

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Encourage us by your example that we may uphold what is right and true. Help us, by your prayers, to be brave in our engagement with society and culture. Amen. 

Day 7

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Watch over our leaders and inspire them to greater service. Help us, by your prayers, to support those who govern us in their quest for holiness. Amen.

Day 8

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Intercede for the needs we cannot see for our own blindness and sin. Help us, by your prayers, to read the signs of the times and respond to them. Amen. 

Day 9

St. Michael, leader of the angelic host, we beg your protection for the Church. Send your angels to fortify and uphold those who are dying. Help us, by your prayers, to inherit eternal life. Amen.

To conclude each day:

Our Father. Hail Mary. Glory be.

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 host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Michael R. Heinlein is editor of Simply Catholic.