St Raphael, whose name translates to “God heals,” is one of the seven Archangels who stand before the throne of God. His role in Catholicism is significant as he is considered the patron saint of healing, travelers, and matchmakers.
Catholicism: The Role of Saint Raphael
Catholicism is a branch of Christianity that follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and is led by the Pope. Within the Catholic Church, saints are seen as models of holiness and virtue. They are believed to be in Heaven, interceding for the faithful on Earth before God. Among the numerous saints recognized in Catholicism, St Raphael holds a special place.
St Raphael is one of the three Archangels mentioned by name in Catholic canonical scriptures. The others are St Michael and St Gabriel. However, it is in the Book of Tobit, a part of the Catholic Old Testament, where St Raphael’s role is most clearly defined.
St Raphael in the Book of Tobit
In the Book of Tobit, St Raphael appears disguised as a man named Azarias. He accompanies Tobit’s son, Tobias, on a perilous journey to retrieve a large sum of money. Along the way, St Raphael provides guidance, protection, and healing. He helps Tobias catch a fish whose gall, heart, and liver have healing properties. Later, he uses the fish’s gall to cure Tobit’s blindness.
St Raphael also plays the role of a matchmaker in the Book of Tobit. He arranges a marriage between Tobias and Sarah, a woman who had previously lost seven husbands due to a demon’s influence. St Raphael instructs Tobias on how to drive away the demon and protect his future wife, resulting in a happy and successful marriage.
Catholic Devotion to Saint Raphael
St Raphael’s intercession is sought by Catholics for many reasons, primarily for healing and guidance during travel. He is the patron saint of the sick, with many Catholics praying to him for healing from physical and spiritual ailments. He is also invoked by those embarking on journeys, as he protected and guided Tobias during his travels.
St Raphael’s role as a matchmaker in the Book of Tobit has also made him the patron saint of happy meetings and Christian marriage. Many Catholic singles pray to St Raphael for guidance in finding their future spouse.
In addition to individual devotions, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Archangels, including St Raphael, on September 29th. This day is dedicated to honoring and seeking the intercession of St Raphael, along with St Michael and St Gabriel.
Conclusion: Saint Raphael in Catholic Life
St Raphael’s influence in Catholic life is profound. His role as a healer, protector, and guide is celebrated and sought after by many. The story of St Raphael in the Book of Tobit serves as a reminder of God’s healing, protective, and guiding presence in our lives. Whether it’s through seeking physical or emotional healing, protection during travels, or guidance in finding a spouse, Catholics find solace and strength in the intercession of St Raphael. His powerful presence in Catholicism continues to inspire and comfort the faithful, affirming the loving and healing power of God in their lives.
