The St. Michael Prayer
Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Short form of the prayer composed under Pope Leo XIII.
Pray the St. Michael Prayer every day with a reminder.
Start praying with Rosary & MercyKey takeaways
- It asks St. Michael for protection from the devil and temptation.
- Pope Leo XIII ordered it said after Low Mass in 1886.
- Michael appears in Daniel, Jude and Revelation as the leader of God's angels.
What is the St. Michael Prayer?
The St. Michael Prayer asks the archangel to defend us in spiritual battle. Pope Leo XIII composed it and in 1886 directed that it be said after every Low Mass. That practice ended with the liturgical changes of 1964, but the prayer is still widely used.
When to pray it
Catholics pray it in the morning or night, when facing temptation, and as a prayer of protection for family. Many parishes still say it after Mass, and some bishops have encouraged this.
Questions people ask
Who is St. Michael?
Michael is an archangel named in Daniel 10:13, Jude 9 and Revelation 12:7. The name means "Who is like God?"
Why did the Church stop saying it after Mass?
The post-Mass prayers were dropped in 1964 when the liturgy was revised. Priests and parishes may still choose to say it.
Is it a prayer of exorcism?
No. It is a prayer for protection. Formal exorcism is a separate rite used by an authorized priest (CCC 1673).
What does the Church teach about angels?
Angels are spiritual, personal beings who serve God and watch over people (CCC 328-336).
Related prayers
Pray through what you are reading, every day, with a gentle reminder.
Start praying with Rosary & MercySources: Revelation 12:7-9 · Daniel 10:13 · Jude 9 · Catechism of the Catholic Church 328-336, 1673 · USCCB