Chaplain’s Corner – September ’26

ByBrad Hilliard

The Holy Cross

Reflection

When we move from the plentiful and sunny days of summer into autumn, we take time to consider the changes that are taking place all around us. The leaves change color and life starts to ease as we go through Ordinary Time. Even though we do not spend as much time outside, the period of socializing and celebrating does begin in our Church community.
 
We have several important feasts in September, such as the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and the feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. The transition from autumn to winter prompt us to readjust and evaluate what is conducive to God’s greater good.
 
Now is the time to make internal and external changes by getting rid of what is no longer necessary if we are to have a smooth and enjoyable journey into the Advent season. The way we cope with these changes shows grace as well as encouraging a joyful attitude towards life.

Melissa McCoy
Maryville Chaplain 

September Notes

  • Mass is open to residents, families and friends. It is offered at 10 a.m. in the Chapel Sunday to Friday. Residents and families can also tune to Maryville channel 63 to participate from their rooms.
  • Liturgical color – September falls within the liturgical season of Ordinary Time, which is represented by Green. This symbol of hope is the color of the sprouting seed and arouses in the faithful the hope of reaping the eternal harvest of heaven.
  • Sept. 3 – Memorial of Pope St. Gregory the Great
  • Sept. 8 – Feast of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary
  • Sept. 14 – Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
  • Sept. 29 – Feast of Sts. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels
  • Sept. 30 – Memorial of St. Jerome

Happy Birthday Mary!

Marian Garden VCESMS; overview of statue and benches to enjoy the garden

We may not know precisely when Mary was born, nevertheless, the Church enhances our knowledge by linking important events to particular days. This enables us to remember her in a significant manner. Every year, we keep Mary’s birthday in mind. This special occasion represents “The hope of the entire world and the dawn of salvation,” as beautifully put by Pope Paul VI in his “Marialis Cultus.”

We should treat Mary’s birthday as a special day when it is entered on your calendar. On that day you could stop to say a sincere prayer in which you thank God for Mary’s important part in our salvation. Her bold agreement to God not only transformed her own life but also influenced the course of history! Her commitment invites us to think about the great effect of her acceptance and faith.

Happy Birthday Mary!

Summary from– The Companion Book of Catholic Days by Karen Edmisten

The Three Archangels

Every year on September 29, Christians celebrate the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. This day honors the three archangels mentioned in the Bible.

  • The Three Archangels
  • Saint Michael’s name means “Who is like God?” He is known as a warrior and protector who fights evil and leads the angels.
  • Saint Gabriel’s name means “Power of God” or “God is my strength.” He is the chief messenger who announced the births of John the Baptist and Jesus.
  • Saint Raphael’s name means “God has healed.” He is known as a companion and healer, especially for his guidance and healing in the Book of Tobit.
  • History of the Day
  • Originally, this date was known as Michaelmas, a festival dedicated to St. Michael.
  • In the past, Gabriel and Raphael each had their own feast days on different dates.
  • In 1969, the General Roman Calendar combined the feasts of all three archangels onto September 29.
  • Traditional Prayers
  • 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.”
  • St. Gabriel Prayer: “O blessed Archangel Gabriel, messenger of God’s secrets, help me to hear the whispers of the Holy Spirit. Guide me to respond to God’s call with faith and courage, just as Mary did. Amen.”
  • St. Raphael Prayer: “Saint Raphael the Archangel, arrow and medicine of divine love, wound our hearts, we implore you, with the burning love of God. Heal our physical illnesses and guide us safely on our life’s journey. Amen.”

Summarized from https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saints-michael-gabriel-and-raphael/ (2026)

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