St Michael Rosary

Introductory Prayers

V. O God, come to my assistance.
R. O Lord, make haste to help me.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

1. Choir of Seraphim

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Seraphim, may the Lord make us worthy to burn with the fire of perfect charity. Amen.

2. Choir of Cherubim

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Cherubim, may the Lord grant us the grace to leave the ways of sin and run in the paths of Christian perfection. Amen.

3. Choir of Thrones

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Thrones, may the Lord infuse into our hearts a true and sincere spirit of humility. Amen.

4. Choir of Dominions

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Dominions, may the Lord give us grace to govern our senses and overcome any unruly passions. Amen.

5. Choir of Virtues

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Virtues, may the Lord preserve us from evil and falling into temptation. Amen.

6. Choir of Powers

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Powers, may the Lord protect our souls against the snares and temptations of the devil. Amen.

7. Choir of Principalities

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Principalities, may God fill our souls with a true spirit of obedience. Amen.

8. Choir of Archangels

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Archangels, may the Lord give us perseverance in faith and in all good works in order that we may attain the glory of Heaven. Amen.

9. Choir of Angels

By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Angels, may the Lord grant us to be protected by them in this mortal life and conducted in the life to come to Heaven. Amen.

Concluding Prayers

Pray one Our Father in honor of each of the following:

St. Michael

St. Gabriel

St. Raphael

Guardian Angel

"O glorious prince St. Michael... deliver us from all evil, who turn to thee with confidence."

Understanding the Hierarchy of the Angels

By meditating on these different choirs, believers can gain a deeper understanding of the angelic realm and the ways in which angels interact with and support humanity.

Deeper Understanding of the Choirs

The Seraphim

The Seraphim are the highest order of angels, positioned closest to God. Their name means "the burning ones," reflecting their intense passion and fiery love for God. Seraphim are often depicted with six wings and are described in Isaiah 6:2-3 as eternally singing God's praises, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory.” They represent the ultimate in divine love and worship, embodying the perfect adoration of God.

The Cherubim

Cherubim are the second highest order of angels and are known for their wisdom and knowledge. They are often depicted as guardians of God's glory and possess an acute understanding of divine truths. The Cherubim are mentioned in Genesis 3:24 as the guardians of the Garden of Eden, and in Ezekiel's visions, they are described with multiple faces and wings, symbolizing their comprehensive knowledge and divine insight.

The Thrones

Thrones, the third choir, are angels of divine justice and authority. They are often depicted as wheels within wheels, covered in eyes, symbolizing God's omnipresence and omniscience. Thrones carry out God's judgment and serve as conduits for His divine will. They facilitate the flow of God's power and justice to the lower choirs of angels and ultimately to humanity.

The Dominions

Dominions are the fourth choir and are responsible for overseeing the duties of the lower angels. They ensure that God's orders are carried out efficiently. Dominions are often depicted holding scepters or orbs, symbolizing their authority and governance. They regulate the duties of angels, ensuring harmony and order within the heavenly realm.

The Virtues

Virtues, the fifth choir, are known for their ability to perform miracles and bestow divine grace and blessings upon humanity. They govern the elements and nature, orchestrating the laws of the physical universe. Virtues inspire the faithful to pursue holiness and courage, and they are often associated with saints and martyrs who perform miraculous deeds.

The Powers

Powers, the sixth choir, are warrior angels tasked with defending the cosmos and humanity against evil spirits. They are the first line of defense in spiritual warfare, protecting the world from the influences of the fallen angels. Powers maintain order in the universe, ensuring that the spiritual and physical realms operate in accordance with God’s will.

The Principalities

Principalities are the seventh choir, and they oversee the guidance of nations, cities, and institutions. They are guardians of nations and leaders, ensuring that God’s divine plan is implemented at a large scale. Principalities also inspire and guide leaders to make just and wise decisions, fostering harmony and peace within communities.

The Archangels

Archangels, the eighth choir, are among the most well-known angels and serve as God’s chief messengers. There are seven archangels, with Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael being the most prominent. Michael is the protector and warrior, Gabriel is the herald of divine messages, and Raphael is the healer. Archangels play crucial roles in significant events in salvation history, acting as intermediaries between God and humanity.

The Angels

Angels, the ninth and lowest choir, are the closest to humanity. They are the guardians and protectors of individuals, often referred to as guardian angels. Each person is believed to have a guardian angel assigned to them from birth, guiding and protecting them throughout their life. These angels also deliver God’s messages and assist in everyday tasks, providing comfort and support to believers.