Pray with Me: The Prayer to St Michael for Peace

A prayer for anxious hearts

Some days, worry follows us from the moment we wake: an unanswered message, a difficult conversation, a future we cannot control. The Prayer to St Michael the Archangel helps us turn towards God’s protection rather than remain alone with our fears.

Its language of battle can sound unfamiliar. Yet this is not a prayer against other people. It asks for help against evil and reminds us that God’s goodness is stronger than the darkness we encounter.

Pope Leo XIII and the story behind the prayer

In 1886, Pope Leo XIII prescribed the Prayer to St Michael for recitation among the prayers said after Low Mass. It became a treasured devotion for generations of Catholics and remains widely prayed today.

A familiar account links the prayer to a disturbing vision or spiritual experience said to have occurred after Leo celebrated Mass. Tradition holds that this experience prompted him to compose the prayer. However, the details and their connection to its composition are not securely documented; popular retellings should not be treated as established history.

The prayer’s value does not depend on proving that story. It rests in its appeal to God’s protection.

What the prayer means

Scripture presents Michael as an angel who contends against evil (Revelation 12:7–9). Catholics ask for his help as God’s servant, not as a power independent of God. The prayer makes this clear: Michael acts “by the power of God”.

This devotion is not a charm or a promise that hardship will disappear. It is an act of trust, accompanying the ordinary Christian life of prayer, the sacraments, practical care and love of neighbour.

Pray with me: a daily intention for peace

Take a quiet breath. Bring before God the worry you have been carrying. You do not need to find perfect words or pretend to feel calm. Today, let our intention be peace for anxious hearts, including our own.

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.

Lord Jesus, settle my heart in your love. Help me recognise what I can do today and entrust to you what I cannot control. Give me courage to seek support, patience with myself, and gentleness towards those around me. Through the help of St Michael, keep me faithful to you. Amen.

You do not have to face this day alone.