When the world feels dark and our own thoughts feel like a battlefield, the Church turns to St Michael the Archangel – the great warrior-angel whose very name is a question that defeats every pride: Micha-el, “Who is like God?” This page gathers prayers to St Michael for protection from evil and from disruptive, intrusive thoughts.
Pray Along with the Video
The video guides you through four prayers to St Michael. The best-known of them, the traditional prayer of Pope Leo XIII, is below.
The St Michael Prayer (Pope Leo XIII)
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Prayer to St Michael for Protection
Saint Michael the Archangel, glorious prince and champion of the heavenly host, guardian of souls and conqueror of the rebel angels: deliver us from every evil, we who turn to you with confidence, and enable us by your protection to serve God more faithfully each day. Amen.
When to Pray These Prayers
After Mass (a long-standing custom for the Leo XIII prayer); on September 29, the Feast of Sts Michael, Gabriel and Raphael; in moments of temptation, fear or spiritual oppression; and whenever intrusive or disruptive thoughts will not leave you in peace.
Who Is St Michael?
St Michael the Archangel appears in Scripture – in Daniel, in the Letter of Jude, and in Revelation – as the leader of the heavenly host who casts down the devil. He is the Church’s patron in spiritual battle and a protector of all who call on him.
Related Prayers
- Litany of the Saints
- Catholic Prayer for Anxiety, Stress and Worry
- Daily Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
🕊 New prayers every week – subscribe on YouTube. If you are facing something frightening, share your intention – you will be prayed for.
Source note: The St Michael Prayer is the traditional prayer of Pope Leo XIII (1884); wording as commonly published in Catholic prayer collections (e.g., mycatholic.life). Remaining prayers to be transcribed from the video and attributed.