In the Epistle of Jude, Michael is specifically referred to as "the archangel Michael", not a Saint, an Archangel, the equivilent in angelic rank to a Prince or General. He is one of the 7 great Princes or Generals in command of the forces of heaven, a protector and the leader of the army of God against the forces of evil. He is the Archangel over Israel. In the New Testament Michael leads God's armies against Satan's forces in the Book of Revelation. During the war in heaven he defeats Satan. Michael is one of only 3 angels mentioned by name in the Bible. He is mentioned 5 times, 3 times in the Old Testament, all in Daniel, and twice in the New Testament, in Jude and Revelation. Michael is one of the most popular of angelic figures, and there are many churches dedicated to St Michael and All Angels. The name “Michael” means “Who is like God?”

The development of the figure of Michael is part of the development of angelology in Judaism towards the end of the Old Testament period. In Daniel, Archangel Michael, as the main angel in charge of protecting Israel, is referred to as the 'Prince' of Israel. Michael’s role was greatly enhanced in the later Jewish and early Christian writings that were not included in the Bible. There in particular Michael appears as the vindicator of Israel and leader of the triumphant armies of God - this is reflected in (Revelation 12:7), where Michael and the angels vanquish the Dragon (Satan) and his host of fallen angels.

Michael is also depicted in the non-canonical literature as the recording angel, and as the angel who carries the souls of the righteous into paradise. This was a theme that figures in the medieval requiem mass.

If you take a look at the military history of modern day Israel, you know God is once more, looking after Israel. Archangel Michael and the heavenly forces at his disposal have been working hard. As children of God, he protects us and shelters us under his wings, the wings of angels.