What a great idea! Go get him! I applaud the idea and action of Bishop Thomas Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield, Illinois who is restoring the recitation of the prayer of St. Michael the Archangel, at every Mass. Beginning immediately, the prayer will be recited after the dismissal and before the recessional or closing song in his Diocese. The Bishop was quoted as saying, "While Christ's death and resurrection have restored the gifts of heavenly treasures for us, we also have to recognize that the devil, Satan, is real and he will do everything in his power to deflect us from our goal, which is eternal life on high with Christ in his kingdom." Not only does he try to deflect us from our goal, but he causes havoc in our world. There is much evil in the world and the influences of evil show up everywhere, unfortunately. I agree with Bishop Paprocki and I think reciting the powerful prayer of St. Michael at every Mass will help defeat the evil presence and evil influences in the world. It will be a help to parishioners as well.
On the beautiful St. Michael prayer card that a friend recently gave to me it says, "We should make it a sacred duty to join fervently in this important prayer, repeating if often each day."
Both Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict have suggested that Catholics recite the prayer of St. Michael daily and especially after Mass. Up until 1965, it was recited at Mass. I say bring it back. It can only help people of faith.
In my opinion, anyone who doesn't believe in evil or evil influences has a veil over their eyes and mind. Everytime I watch the news or read a newspaper, there's evidence of evil in the world. It's very plain to me.
NJA
Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel
Saint Michael the Archangel defend us in battle. Be our safeguard against the wiles and wickedness of the devil. Restrain him, O God, 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 and destruction of souls. Amen.
