The Role of Saint Raphael the Archangel

Saint Raphael the Archangel is primarily known as the healer, a role deeply rooted in religious tradition and scripture. His name itself, Raphael, means ‘God’s Healing’ . According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, angels are spiritual, non-corporeal beings whose existence is a truth of faith, serving as servants and messengers of God. St. Augustine noted that ‘angel’ refers to their office, while ‘spirit’ refers to their nature.

St. Raphael is identified as one of the seven Archangels who stand before the throne of God. His office includes bringing healing to both body and soul, as well as assisting with charity and deliverance. Tradition holds that he is powerful and capable of healing various maladies in humans and animals.

Much of the knowledge concerning Archangel Raphael comes from the Book of Tobias. In this narrative, he served as a guide and counselor to young Tobias]. A notable instance of his healing power recorded in this book is when he helped Tobias prepare balms and ointments from a fish to restore the sight of Tobias's father, Tobit. Beyond the Book of Tobias, tradition attributes other healing acts to St. Raphael, including healing Abraham of the pain of circumcision and curing the disjointed thigh Jacob suffered during his wrestling encounter. Furthermore, tradition suggests that Raphael was the angel responsible for stirring the waters at the healing sheep pool in Bethesda.

In addition to being known as the healer, Saint Raphael is also called the Angel of Science and Knowledge. He is sometimes referred to as ‘Regent’ or ‘Angel of the Sun’. Due to his bright countenance and his companionable treatment of Tobias, he is often considered the most sociable of the archangels, imagined to possess a good sense of humor and a happy disposition. It is said that he takes pleasure in bringing health and happiness wherever he goes.

Because of his mission as a healer and guide, St. Raphael is invoked for journeys and at critical moments in life. Prayers seeking his intercession for healing are common. These prayers often refer to him as the "medicine of God" and humbly request him to heal infirmities of the soul and ills afflicting the body. They ask for his aid and intercession so that souls may be healed, bodies protected from ills, and through divine grace, individuals may become fit to dwell in God's eternal glory. Prayers also mention his hand being filled with balm from heaven to soothe or cure pains and ask him to heal or cure the victim of disease. He is recognized as the patron of healing.