Gabriel

I talk a lot about Archangel Michael, but with the Annunciation approaching, I’ve been reflecting on the magic of Gabriel.

Archangel Gabriel is one of the four primary archangels, alongside Michael, Raphael, and Uriel. In folk magic, he is connected to the Moon and the element of water, symbols of intuition, insight, and clarity. He’s commonly identified as the trumpet-blowing angel on the Judgement card and invoked in rituals and petitions for guidance and discernment.

Gabriel is associated with communication and revelation, known for bringing the news to Mary that she would become the mother of Jesus (celebrated March 25th). He also heralded the birth of John the Baptist, which is when he declares (Luke 1:19), “‘I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God…” 

Gabriel serves as a messenger and psychopomp, guiding souls and assisting with transitions, and his direct connection makes him a powerful intercessor.

This is also naturally an important time for Marian devotion (especially given that we’re in the middle of Lent). The Angelus, a prayer that honors the Annunciation, is recited three times daily (morning, noon, and evening), alternating short verses with the Hail Mary, and often accompanied by church bells. 

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This just reminded me of my Orthodox church growing up and how the kids would scramble up to the attic when it was time to ring the bells. The little room was empty, except for a small, square hole in the ceiling, from which descended an extremely thick rope, knotted at intervals. Once the cluster of tiny hands dragged the thick rope down—enough for the heavy bronze bells to gain momentum—one of the boys would reach for the highest knot, and on every upswing we’d roar with laughter, drowned out by the noise above, as he soared feet off the ground.

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