Gabriella: Name Day and Patron Saint

The Archangel Gabriel is one of the leaders of the heavenly hosts and a faithful servant of God, whose name is usually rendered “Man of God”. The Scriptures and the Church’s tradition remember him above all as the messenger of our salvation. He came to the Prophet Daniel in his visions and revealed what was to befall Israel. In the Temple he appeared to the priest Zacharias and foretold the birth of St John the Forerunner. Most of all, he was sent to the Virgin Mary in Nazareth to announce that she would bear the Son of God, to the great rejoicing of all mankind. Tradition also remembers him guiding St Joseph in a dream, strengthening Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane before His Passion, and bringing the joyful news of the Resurrection to the Myrrh-bearing Women. Because he served the mystery of the Incarnation, the Church honours him on the day after the Annunciation, giving thanks to the Lord and venerating His messenger. The Church keeps his memory on 26 March (8 April on the Old Calendar); he is remembered again on 13 July, and with all the angels on 8 November. In icons he is often shown in blue or white, holding a lily or a lantern. The faithful ask his prayers trusting in his intercession, and especially when they wait on God’s word, look for good news, or need courage to receive His will as the Virgin did.

What the faithful pray for

• those who await good news
• readiness to hear and receive God’s will
• expectant mothers and families waiting for a child
• strength in hours of anguish and prayer
• messengers, teachers and all who carry the Gospel