1. Michael is Called a “Prince” and a Defender of God’s People

• Fact: Michael is explicitly called one of the chief princes in heaven, tasked with protecting Israel.
• Verse: “At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people.” (Daniel 12:1)

2. Michael Leads Heaven’s Army Against Satan

• Fact: Michael is depicted as the leader of God’s army in a cosmic battle against Satan and his angels.
• Verse: “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon fought and his angels.” (Revelation 12:7)

3. Michael Directly Confronted Satan Over Moses’ Body

• Fact: Michael contended with Satan over the body of Moses, although the exact reasons are mysterious.
• Verse: “But Michael the archangel, when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses, did not dare pronounce against him a railing judgment, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’” (Jude 1:9)

4. Michael Will Play a Key Role in the End Times

• Fact: Michael’s appearance is tied to the final judgment and the deliverance of God’s people in the end times.
• Verse: “At that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation.” (Daniel 12:1)

5. Michael is the Only Angel Explicitly Called an “Archangel”

• Fact: Though other angels like Gabriel are mentioned, Michael is the only one explicitly given the title “archangel.”
• Verse: “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16)

6. Michael is a Warrior, Not a Messenger

• Fact: Unlike Gabriel, who delivers messages, Michael’s role is primarily as a warrior and protector.
• Verse: “And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon.” (Revelation 12:7)

7. Michael’s Name Means “Who is Like God?”

• Fact: The name “Michael” comes from the Hebrew Mīkhā’ēl, meaning “Who is like God?”—a rhetorical question affirming God’s supremacy.
• Verse: While this is etymological, it ties into his role in defending God’s glory (Daniel 10:13).

8. Michael Helps Deliver Answers to Prayers

• Fact: Michael assisted another angel in delivering a message to Daniel after encountering resistance from a demonic power.
• Verse: “But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me.” (Daniel 10:13)

9. Michael is Seen as Israel’s Guardian Angel

• Fact: Michael is uniquely associated with protecting the people of Israel throughout Scripture.
• Verse: “At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people.” (Daniel 12:1)

10. Michael’s Defeat of Satan is Symbolic of the Church’s Triumph

• Fact: Michael’s victory over Satan in heaven is seen as symbolic of Christ’s victory over sin and death.
• Verse: “And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” (Revelation 12:11, tied to Michael’s victory in Revelation 12:7)

How To Become A Saint

The process of becoming a saint, within the Roman Catholic Church, is a long and rigorous one that serves to recognize and honor individuals who have led lives of exceptional holiness and virtue. This article will delve into the specific requirements and steps involved in the canonization process.

1. Background

Before diving into the requirements, it’s essential to note that not everyone can be canonized as a saint. The process is reserved for people who have lived lives of profound faith, service, and often, sacrifice. Over centuries, the Church has developed strict procedures to ensure that only truly deserving individuals receive this honor.

2. The Process

a. Waiting Period:

Traditionally, there’s a five-year waiting period after a person’s death before the cause for their sainthood can be opened. However, this can be waived by the Pope, as seen in the cases of Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II.

b. Servant of God:

The first official step begins when the local bishop opens an investigation into the life of the deceased person, who is then called a “Servant of God.”

c. Venerable:

If, after rigorous investigation, the Vatican’s Congregation for the Causes of Saints finds that the person lived a life of “heroic virtue,” they’re declared “Venerable.”

d. Blessed:

For beatification (the step before canonization), a miracle attributed to the person’s intercession is required (unless the individual died a martyr, in which case this step can be bypassed). When beatified, the person is called “Blessed.”

e. Saint:

For canonization, a second miracle is typically required. Once confirmed, the Pope can declare the individual a saint.

3. Requirements for Sainthood

a. Live a Life of Heroic Virtue

The Church looks for evidence of Christian virtues lived out in an extraordinary manner. These virtues include faith, hope, charity, prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance.

b. Miracles:

Miracles serve as divine confirmation of the candidate’s sanctity. These miracles, often medical in nature, must be instantaneous, lasting, and inexplicable by scientific means.

c. Martyrdom:

Dying for one’s faith is considered an ultimate testament to one’s love for Christ. Martyrs can be beatified without a miracle.

d. A Reputation for Holiness:

The candidate must have a widespread reputation for holiness that persists after their death. This reputation is a vital sign of their enduring impact and spiritual significance.

4. Investigation

The Church conducts thorough investigations at various stages of the canonization process.

This includes:

• • Gathering of writings, speeches, and other documents associated with the person.
  • Interviews with witnesses who knew the person.
  • Examination of the person’s life, virtues, and any alleged miracles.
  • Scrutiny by theologians and panels of experts.

5. Advocatus Diaboli or “Devil’s Advocate”

Historically, a person was appointed to argue against the canonization, presenting a skeptical view of the candidate’s virtues and miracles. This role ensured that the process was comprehensive and objective.

Becoming a saint in the Roman Catholic Church is not about popularity or fame; it’s a recognition of a life lived with profound holiness and devotion to God. The stringent requirements and the detailed process ensure that those who are canonized truly represent models of Christian virtue for the faithful to emulate.