Archangel Michael

In a previous blog, I was discussing the card Temperance and mentioned that the angel in the picture was representative of the Archangel Michael.  I said that he deserved a post all his own, so today I would like to share some more about him.  He is a well-known leader among archangels and beloved to Pagans, Jews, Christians, Muslims and the unaffiliated.  His name means "he who is like God" and he is the head of the Lord's army.  Michael is in charge of the order of angels known as "the Virtues," and oversees the life purpose of lightworkers.  In 1959, he was canonized as Saint Michael, "the Patron of Police Officers," but he can be called on by anyone who feels afraid or vulnerable and he will immediately bring you courage and protection.
When I am reading for someone and this card comes up, I often ask if they are feeling in need of these things and if so I recommend Michael as a loving defender of justice and righteousness. (Please note:  I also always ask the person if they mind sharing how they feel about angels first and if they are comfortable with them.  I NEVER suggest anything like that to someone who is not comfortable with the concept and I greatly respect everyone's privacy and personal beliefs.  I believe that it is NOT my place or that of anyone else to push any sort of dogma or religion on another person.  To me that is a very personal decision that should be made by each individual based on their own private beliefs about and connection with the Divine, Spirit, God, Goddess, Universal Consciousness, Higher Self or whoever they choose to worship or believe in, if any.  However, I will say that if I do get a message from Michael with the card, then I do feel obligated to share it informatively with the person who it is for.  As a channel for the cards, I believe that withholding any of the information that I receive would just be unethical and deceitful.  Anyway, moving on...)  You may invoke Michael for protection whenever something frightens you.  He has no limitations of time or space and can help everyone who calls on him simultaneously.  Therefore, you can petition him on behalf of others as well.  (Again, I always recommend asking them first, if you can.  I believe all guides and guardians have more power with permission.)  There is an old verbal chant that I like to use when calling him.  I share it now with respect, light and love.
"Michael to the right of me,
Michael to the left of me,
Michael above me,
Michael below me,
Michael within me,
Michael all around me,
Michael, with your flaming sword
of cobalt blue, please protect me."
Blessed Be