As Catholics, we’re familiar with the solemn season of Lent leading up to Easter, but have you heard of St. Michael’s Lent? This lesser-known yet profoundly powerful devotion, rooted in the life of St. Francis of Assisi, offers a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal. Running from the Feast of the Assumption (August 15) to Michaelmas, the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel (September 29), this 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and penance invites us to call upon the mightiest defender of Heaven—St. Michael the Archangel—to guide us in our spiritual battles. At Catholic Faith Store, we’re here to help you embrace this sacred tradition with devotion and the right tools to deepen your faith.
What Is St. Michael’s Lent?
St. Michael’s Lent is a 40-day devotion (excluding Sundays) that mirrors the penitential spirit of Lent. Originating in the 13th century, this practice is closely tied to St. Francis of Assisi, who had a deep devotion to St. Michael. According to The Little Flowers of St. Francis by St. Bonaventure, Francis observed this period of fasting and prayer to honor both the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Michael, culminating in his reception of the stigmata on September 14, 1224, during a retreat on Mount La Verna.
This “mini-Lent” begins on the Solemnity of the Assumption and ends on Michaelmas, a feast day historically celebrated with great solemnity in the Middle Ages. Though not an official liturgical season, St. Michael’s Lent remains a powerful way to seek purification, protection, and spiritual strength through the intercession of St. Michael, the “Prince of the Heavenly Host.”
Enhance your devotion with our St. Michael the Archangel Statue, a beautiful reminder of his role as the Church’s protector. Place it in your prayer space to inspire your daily reflections during this sacred season.
Why St. Michael’s Lent Matters Today
In a world filled with spiritual and moral challenges, St. Michael’s Lent is a timely call to arms—a spiritual battle cry to invoke the archangel who defeated Satan with the humble cry, “Quis ut Deus?” (“Who is like God?”). Scripture highlights St. Michael’s role as a defender of God’s people:
- Daniel 10: Michael defends Israel against spiritual forces.
- Daniel 12: He protects God’s people at the end of time.
- Revelation 12: Michael leads the heavenly armies to cast Satan out of Heaven.
- Jude 1:9: He contends for the body of Moses, showcasing his authority over evil.
St. Michael is the Guardian of the Church, the protector of souls at death, and the leader in the fight against evil. Observing St. Michael’s Lent helps us tap into his intercession for:
- Deeper humility in our daily lives.
- Strength against sin and temptation.
- Protection in spiritual warfare against the forces of darkness.
- Renewed zeal for God’s glory, as testified by saints and mystics.
To strengthen your resolve, consider wearing our St. Michael Medal, a powerful sacramental to keep the archangel’s protection close during this penitential season.
How to Observe St. Michael’s Lent
St. Michael’s Lent is a flexible devotion, allowing you to tailor it to your spiritual capacity. While less rigorous than the Lenten season before Easter, it emphasizes prayer, fasting, and penance. Here’s how you can participate from August 15 to September 29:
- Follow the Precepts of the Church: Attend Mass regularly and go to Confession as needed to stay in a state of grace.
- Practice Fasting or Abstinence: Choose a daily sacrifice, such as abstaining from a favorite food, limiting screen time, or waking up early for prayer. Like Lent, Sundays are excluded from fasting.
- Pray Daily with St. Michael: Light a candle before an image of St. Michael and recite the Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel:
“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.”
You can also include the Litany of St. Michael or the Chaplet of St. Michael for deeper devotion. Our St. Michael Prayer Cards includes these prayers and more, making it an excellent companion for your 40-day journey. - Consecrate Yourself to St. Michael: On September 28, the vigil of Michaelmas, pray the Act of Consecration to St. Michael the Archangel to seal your devotion.
- Meditate on Scripture: Reflect on passages like Revelation 12 to understand St. Michael’s role in the cosmic battle between good and evil.
To guide your prayers, we recommend our St. Michael Rosary, designed to honor the archangel while fostering devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who St. Francis also honored during this season.
The Spiritual Fruits of St. Michael’s Lent
By observing St. Michael’s Lent, you invite St. Michael’s powerful intercession into your life. This devotion is particularly effective for:
- Breaking addictions and temptations through spiritual discipline.
- Purifying your home and family from negative influences.
- Strengthening the Church against spiritual attacks.
- Preparing your soul for the final battle, as St. Michael leads the heavenly armies.
Saints like St. Francis and mystics throughout history have testified to the transformative power of invoking St. Michael during trials. As you embark on this journey, let our St. Michael Wall Plaque serve as a vibrant, inspiring focal point in your home, reminding you of his protective presence.
Why Choose St. Michael’s Lent in 2025?
In these turbulent times, St. Michael’s Lent is more relevant than ever. As the shield of the Church, St. Michael stands ready to defend us against the forces of evil. This 40-day devotion is a chance to deepen your faith, grow in humility, and seek protection in spiritual warfare. Whether you’re facing personal struggles or praying for the world, St. Michael’s intercession can guide you toward spiritual renewal.
At Catholic Faith Store, we’re committed to supporting your journey through St. Michael’s Lent. Explore our collection of St. Michael Gifts, including statues, medals, rosaries, and prayer books, to enhance your devotion. These sacramentals serve as tangible reminders of St. Michael’s role as the “mightiest defender of Heaven.”
Join the Spiritual Battle with St. Michael
As St. Michael’s Lent begins on August 15, 2025, take up this forgotten tradition to prepare your soul for Michaelmas on September 29. Let the cry of “Quis ut Deus?” echo in your heart as you pray, fast, and seek purity. With St. Michael by your side, you can face any spiritual battle with confidence, knowing the Prince of the Heavenly Host is fighting for you.
Shop now at Catholic Faith Store to find the perfect St. Michael sacramentals to accompany you through this sacred season. Let’s honor St. Michael together and reclaim this powerful devotion for our times.
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle!
