Michaelmas

"Michaelmas", the feast of Saint Michael the Archangel (also the "Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, Uriel and Raphael, the Feast of the Archangels", or the "Feast of Saint Michael and All Angels") is a day in the Western Christian calendar which occurs on the 29th of September. Because it falls near the equinox, it is associated in the northern hemisphere with the beginning of autumn and the shortening of days. In medieval England, Michaelmas marked the ending and beginning of the husbandman's year, George C. Homans observes: "at that time harvest was over, and the bailiff or reeve of the manor would be making out the accounts for the year."

In Christianity, the Archangel Michael is the greatest of all the Archangels and is honored for defeating Lucifer in the war in heaven. He is one of the principal angelic warriors, seen as a protector against the dark of night, and the administrator of cosmic intelligence. Michaelmas has also delineated time and seasons for secular purposes as well, particularly in the United Kingdom and Ireland as one of the quarter days.

The Eastern Orthodox Churches do not observe Michaelmas. The Greek Orthodox honor the archangels on the 8th of November instead.

St. Michael

"...there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back." ~ The Book of Revelation (12:7-9)

St. Michael is an archangel whose gentle influence is present throughout several religions and spiritual practices. He is often seen as both a great military force and a healer. For many, he has become a symbol not just of strength and protection, but of humility as well.

St. Michael is available over at my CafePress Shop under the Digital Art, Fine Art & Photography section.