About Saint Raphael the Archangel
“I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand and serve before the Glory of the Lord.” – Tobit 12:15
Saint Raphael the Archangel is one of the seven archangels who stand before the throne of God. His name in Hebrew means “God heals,” and in the Book of Tobit, he is sent by God to bring healing, protect the vulnerable, and guide the faithful on their journeys.
In this powerful biblical account, Raphael disguises himself as a traveling companion to the young Tobias. Along the way, he restores sight to Tobit, delivers Sarah from a tormenting spirit, and blesses the marriage of Tobias and Sarah. Raphael reveals that he was sent in response to their prayers and good works, showing that God is never distant from the struggles of His people.
Because of this sacred mission, Raphael is honored as the patron of healing, travelers, medical workers, joyful marriages, and those seeking direction. He is also a sign of God’s nearness — a companion in times of pain, discernment, or change.
At The Church of Saint Raphael the Archangel in Hammond, Indiana, we embrace his mission. Inspired by his role in Scripture, we strive to be a healing and welcoming community, walking alongside those who suffer, accompanying those in search of God, and offering the grace of the sacraments to all in need of divine mercy.
About Saint Raphael the Archangel (For Children)
“I am Raphael, one of the seven angels who stand and serve before the Glory of the Lord.” – Tobit 12:15
Saint Raphael is one of God’s special angels. His name means “God heals.” In the Bible, God sent Raphael to help a family who was very sad and hurting.
He went on a journey with a boy named Tobias. Along the way, Raphael helped cure Tobias’s father’s blindness and protected Tobias from danger. He also helped two people fall in love and get married.
Saint Raphael is the patron saint of healing, travelers, and people looking for God’s help. He reminds us that God sends help when we pray and that no one is ever alone.
At our church, we try to be like Saint Raphael—kind, helpful, and full of love for others.