Michaelmas: Call upon Archangel Michael on His Holy Day or When Fears Arise

Celebrated on September 29, Michaelmas is the holy day in which Archangel Michael is revered in the Christian, Jewish and Islamic traditions. Saint Michael, as he is often called, is considered the highest of all the archangels and is usually depicted carrying a golden sword in his hand.  Michael and his sword represent courage, strength, protection, justice and truth, especially in times of darkness.

In Waldorf schools throughout the world, Michaelmas is a celebrated festival honoring Saint Michael as well as the Fall Equinox. Teachers, children and parents gather to share in the victorious defeat of a fearsome dragon, sing songs, and feast together on the bounty of summer’s harvest. Oftentimes the story of Saint George and the Dragon is acted out in a play; in many versions of this legend Archangel Michael offers his gifts of strength and courage to Saint George during battle.

​Brave, low voices rhythmically chant:

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When I conquer within me fear and wrath,
Michael in heaven casts the dragon forth!

Simultaneously, higher pitches of determination sing:

Firmly on the earth I stand,
Michael's sword within my hand.
When I conquer fear, the dragon's chains I tightly bind,
Michael's light within my mind.
When I thrust against the monster's pride,
Michael is at my side.

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The dragon, representing the dark, fearsome and untamed aspects of ourselves, is conquered thus saving innocent lives – and perhaps freeing a princess as well – symbolizing our own innocence and nobility.  

As we enter fall, darkness slowly returns to our lives as our nights stretch to outweigh our days.  This fall, with several wars raging, the economy plunging, systems crumbling and the energies of old patterns dying within and around us, we are likely noticing elevated levels of fear.  For some, we are in the midst of many unplanned and frightening changes.  Whether fall, fear or faith prompt you, remember you can always call upon Archangel Michael for his Light.  You can sink into an intentional meditation, you can create an alter in honor of fall and/or Archangel Michael, or perhaps you offer him a sincere song, letting him know your willingness and desire for support through challenging times.  

Allow yourself to sing with an open heart on behalf of yourself, your community, country or even the whole planet:

We walk toward you oh, Michael. 
Help us to fight the dragon!
Let the light of heaven shine on our way!