St. Raphael the Archangel is patron of the doctors and the blind
St. Raphael the Archangel is one of the 7 archangels who stand before the throne of God. He is known as the “archangel of healing” for his divine intervention to the character Tobit, cured by him of a blindness.
Saint Raphael is also known as the patron saint of travelers, as he guides devotees on spiritual journeys of search for truth and knowledge.
In the book of Tobit, chapters 5 through 9 (Old Testament), St. Raphael helped Tobias to make balms with the viscera of a fish and thus helped to cure the blindness of Tobit, the father of Tobias.
Rafael means “The Lord of Healing” or “Medicine of God” and is much invoked by doctors, nurses and all those who suffer from illness.
St. Raphael the Archangel is a powerful intercessor who helps, according to the will of God, to heal physical, mental and spiritual illnesses.
The prayer below can be made to invoke Saint Raphael whenever there is any special intention.
Prayer of healing to Saint Raphael the Archangel
Oh, kindly Saint Raphael the Archangel, I invoke you as the patron of those who have been struck by disease or bodily infirmity.
You have prepared the remedy that healed Tobias’ blindness and his name means “The Lord Heals.”
I turn to you, begging your divine assistance in my present need:
(Make your intention)
If it be of God’s will, cure my illness, or at least grant me the grace and strength I need to endure it patiently, offering it for the forgiveness of my sins and for the salvation of my soul.
Teach me to unite my sufferings with those of Jesus and Mary and to seek the grace of God in prayer and communion.
I want to imitate you in your eagerness to do God’s will in all things.
Like young Tobias, I choose you as my companion on my journey through this valley of tears. I want to follow your inspirations every step of the way, so that I can reach the end of my journey under your constant protection and in the grace of God.
Archangel Saint Raphael, you revealed yourself as the divine assistant of the Throne of God, come into my life and help me in this moment of trial.
Grant me the grace and blessing of God and the favor I ask of you for your powerful intercession.
Great Physician of God heal me as thou didst with Tobias, if this be the will of the Creator.
Saint Raphael, Resource of God, Angel of Health, Medicine of God, pray for me.
Amen.