Archangel Raphael, the Patron Saint of Healing
Raphael is the angel associated with healing. In Hebrew, his name translates to “the medicine of God.” Catholics refer to Raphael as the patron saint of doctors, nurses and medical workers. Throughout Italy, health facilities are called Raphael Centers.
Raphael is one of four archangels. The others are Michael, Gabriel and Uriel. In the New Testament, Raphael is thought to be the unnamed angel stirring the healing pool at Bethesda. In the Babylonian Talmud, three angels appear to Abraham. God assigns each a specific mission. Michael is told to inform Sarah she’ll give birth to Isaac. Gabriel is told to destroy Sodom. Raphael’s charge is to heal and save human beings.
The Bible teaches that angels are real and can work on our behalf. (“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?”) We are not to worship or pray directly to angels. We are to worship and pray only to God. (“Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.”) Angels do God’s bidding. Their power comes from God who instructs the angels to intervene on our behalf.
Several years ago, I suffered from horrible allergies. My doctor could not discern the cause. Medicine was ineffective. I went on a wheat and dairy detox but the allergies continued. I prayed to God for guidance. I woke one morning with a word in my head…
