Michaelmas is the feast of St Michael the archangel.
Michael - 'who is like to God ' was the war cry of good angels in the battles fought in Heaven against Satan. Michael was the greatest of the archangels and is honoured for defeating Lucifer in Heaven.
Because the day occurs on the 29th of September it falls near the equinox and is associated with the
beginning of autumn and the shortening of days. Michaelmas marked the ending and beginning of the husbandman's year.
Michaelmas also marks the first day of the autumn term.
The lilac and purple asters which bloom at this time are known as Michaelmas daisies.
Michaelmas gales assail the waning year,
And Michael’s scale is true, his blade is bright.
He strips dead leaves; and leaves the living clear
To flourish in the touch and reach of light.
Archangel bring your balance, help me turn
Upon this turning world with you and dance
In the Great Dance. Draw near, help me discern,
And trace the hidden grace in change and chance.
Angel of fire, Love’s fierce radiance,
Drive through the deep until the steep waves part,
Undo the dragon’s sinuous influence
And pierce the clotted darkness in my heart.
Unchain the child you find there, break the spell
And overthrow the tyrannies of Hell.
Malcolm Guite
For Vagabonde
