The Archangels

 September 29 is the feast of the Archangels, Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. Our youngest son is named Michael. I attended St. Michael Elementary and High School. Last spring a wonderful exhibit of Byzantine art in Washington, D.C. featured this amazing icon of St. Michael. The word angel means "messenger of God." The name Michael  means "Who is like God?" St. Michael is a powerful intercessor and protector of mankind. For me and many others there are strong and familial ties to this archangel who battled Lucifer and his minions.
My grandchildren and I had fun making St. Michael's Marbles. A tasty and healthy treat made from oatmeal, peanut butter, honey and raisins. It is a no-bake St. Michael "energy ball" as my grandchildren like to call them. Below are some pictures of the children making the tasty treat. The simple recipe follows and then we end with the St. Michael Prayer.

St. Michael's Marbles

Recipe

2 cups of oatmeal

1/2 cup of peanut butter

1/4 cup honey

6 ounces of raisins

Mix well and shape into "marbles". Yum.  This recipe is adapted from Catholic Traditions in Cooking by Ann Ball.

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel

St. Michael the Archangel, 

defend us in battle. 

Be our defense 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, 

thrust into hell Satan, 

and all the evil spirits, 

who prowl about the world 

seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.