The Saint Michael Medal

Is Saint Michael a saint or an angel?

Both. He is an archangel, and the Church honors him as Saint Michael. His feast day is September 29, shared with the archangels Gabriel and Raphael.

Can a non-Catholic wear a Saint Michael medal?

Yes. Saint Michael appears in the Bible, in the books of Daniel, Jude and Revelation, and Orthodox and Anglican Christians honor him too. Anyone who respects what the medal stands for can wear it.

What scene is shown on the Saint Michael medal?

Saint Michael the Archangel defeating the dragon, the scene of Revelation 12 where he casts out the forces of evil. Catholics wear his medal to ask for his protection, and he is the patron of police officers and soldiers.

Where does the Saint Michael medal sit on its 55 cm wheat chain?

At mid-chest. The 2.5 mm wheat chain is 55 cm (about 22 in), and the 5 cm extender lets it drop to 60 cm. The medal is 20 mm wide, 39 mm tall with the bail and 1.8 mm thick.

Which Saint Michael finish wears in the least: silver, gold or black?

Silver, since it is the polished steel itself. The gold and black finishes are on stainless steel too, so water is fine, but chlorine, perfume and rubbing against a uniform wear them faster.

Is it a good gift for a new police officer or a soldier?

Yes. It is often given to someone joining the police, a recruit leaving for basic training or a firefighter. The black finish stays discreet under a uniform.

How do I choose a saint medal for a confirmation?

Most people start with their confirmation name, then ask which saint they would actually want beside them in a hard year. Saint Michael for courage against evil, Saint Benedict for protection, Saint Christopher for those who travel, Saint Jude for hope in what seems lost, Mary for those who bring her every worry. Read a saint's story before deciding. For a first medal with few words, the Saint Michael Prayer is ringed by the invocation Saint Michael, pray for us. Compare the others at Saint Necklaces & Medals.

St Michael necklace for a firefighter

Firefighters go in when everyone else is coming out, and the people who love them learn to live with that phone call they hope never comes. Many entrust them to Saint Michael, patron of all who stand guard. The Saint Michael Signet shows him with sword raised, in steel, US 7 to 15, for the hand that goes back to work. The Saint Michael Shield puts the archangel on a shield, for those in risky work. Check what the department allows on duty. The prayer needs no permission. More: Saint Michael Necklace.

My husband deploys to the Middle East in two weeks. Third time. We're Catholic. Our kids are little. I act calm for them but at night I can't breathe.

A third deployment does not hurt less than the first, and you are holding it together in a house full of small people who are watching your face. Catholics in harm's way have asked for Saint Michael's protection for centuries: 'defend us in battle.' The Saint Michael Medal, shows the archangel who casts out evil, and it is for those who protect others. Put it on him yourself, the night before. Then give the kids a job: saying 'Saint Michael, pray for Daddy' at bedtime. When you cannot breathe at 2 a.m., say the same words. You are not holding this alone.