September 2026

At the end of September, we mark the feast of S. Michael & All Angels which is also known as Michaelmas. Our dear Church in Clyro is dedicated to S. Michael & All Angels. From secondary school I have attended places of education where the first term was referred to as Michaelmas. Our local authority refers to this term as ‘Autumn term’ which is a new one to me. No further comment. It must be said that I did not associate this part of the academic year with S. Michael, or any other Angel for that matter, and spiritual battle and adversity was far from my mind. Certainly, whilst at secondary school, the battle fought would be a trinitarian one between my pillow, the alarm clock, and the school bus.

As September comes to an end we ordinarily move into darker nights and colder days. Leaves begin to change from green into shades of brown and orange before falling off trees and collecting in inconvenient clumps around the place. Historically the harvest would be coming to an end marking the end of one productive season. It is a time of change and so it is quite fitting that a new term would carry the name of the feast which closes September.

Likewise, it is fitting that we recall S. Michael and the other Angels at a time of new beginnings and change. In the Collect set for this feast, we ask that, ‘they may help and defend us on earth.’ We are all too aware that we are not able to reply upon our own strength and courage alone; the Grace of God is required. This is with regards to all aspects of life, be that material, physical or spiritual. In Scripture we see many an example of God working through messengers and intermediaries. Some examples include the Angel Gabriel appearing to Our Lady and an unnamed angel with Daniel in the lions’ den. In seeking the aid of God as we continue into the unknown, or in dealing with an issue or struggle that weighs heavily, let us not put limits on God for He will often grant us that aid which we seek in the most unexpected of ways.

Please God, let it be that the Please God, let it be that the Blessed Saints, most particularly Our Lady, continue to pray for us!