A St. Michael the Archangel candle, often a tall 7-day or novena candle enclosed in glass, is a potent spiritual tool used for prayer, devotion, and petition, particularly for protection and spiritual warfare in Christian and various spiritual traditions.
Saint Michael (San Miguel) is revered as the leader of the heavenly armies, the defender of the Church, and a powerful champion against evil forces.
🛡️ Key Meanings and Uses
The primary function of a St. Michael candle is to invoke the Archangel's help in situations of fear, spiritual struggle, and danger.
Protection from Evil: This is the most common use. The candle is lit to call upon St. Michael to shield a person, home, or family from negative influences, spiritual attacks, ill-will, and the actions of the devil or evil spirits.
Spiritual Strength and Courage: St. Michael is a warrior, and lighting his candle can help the user find the inner strength, courage, and resolve to face difficult life challenges, fear, or uncertainty.
Justice and Truth: He is associated with divine justice and truth. The candle can be used to seek his help in situations involving legal issues, fairness, or when you are fighting for what is right.
Clearing and Banishing: Similar to a Spell Breaker candle, St. Michael's candle is often used for house clearing and to banish or remove spiritual blockages and negative energies that have settled in a space.
Spiritual Guidance: He offers direction and clarity, especially when one is confused or needs to make righteous decisions.
Patronage: He is the patron saint of police officers, soldiers, and first responders, and his candle is used to pray for their safety and protection while they perform their duties.
🕯️ How to Use the Candle
In devotional and ritual practice, the candle is used as a focal point for continuous prayer and connection with the Archangel.
Set Up: Place the candle in a safe, prominent spot—often on a home altar, prayer corner, or a heat-safe surface. Some people dedicate a blue or white cloth to their St. Michael area.
Petition: Clearly state your intention and petition to St. Michael. Most candles have the traditional Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel printed on the back:
"Saint 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."
Enhancement (Optional): In some folk and spiritual traditions, the candle may be "dressed" (anointed) with oils (like St. Michael Oil or Protection Oil) or have intentions, names, or protection symbols carved into the wax before lighting.
Light and Devotion: Light the candle, recite the prayer, and spend time meditating on the image of St. Michael defeating the forces of darkness, visualizing his protective light surrounding you.
Novena: The 7-day or 9-day (novena) candle is typically allowed to burn continuously, symbolizing an ongoing, constant prayer and invocation of his protection.
