San Miguel Archangel
(Patron Saint of San Miguel de Allende)
September 29
Archangel is derived from the Greek words arche (prince) and angelos (messenger). Saint Michael is the only angel in the bible who is referred to as an archangel however Catholics refer to Michael, Gabriel and Raphael all as archangels.
Saint Michael is referred to in both the old and new testament. In the Book of Daniel he is referred to as a Prince (Book of Daniel 10:13, 10:21 and 12:1) “Michael the great prince who shall rise at the time of the end.”
The prophet Daniel has a vision of Michael as the protector of the Jews and later as a protector against Satan. Daniel is instructed about Michael’s future role as the angel who defeats Satan at the “Time of the end” a reference to Armageddon. “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise.”
In the Book of Revelation in the New Testament, Michael defeats Satan in the heavenly War.
Saint Michael has four main roles in Catholic teachings.; Leader of the army of God over Satan, the Angel of Death who gives the dying an opportunity to repent an hour before their death, scale-master determining the balance of good and evil after their death and Paton Saint of the Jews.
San Miguel de Allende
In 1542 by Fray Juan de San Miguel founded San Miguel (San Miguel el Grande) when he built a mission to serve the Indian groups in the area. It was renamed San Miguel de Allende after Ignacio Allende, a hero in the War of Independence.
La Parroquia, is called the Church of St. Michael the Archangel
San Miguel is the Patron Saint of San Miguel de Allende and the world renowned church La Parroquia, is called the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. The feast day of San Miguel is September 29 and the party is combined with San Miguel’s October 3 birthday called La Alborada, The party lasts for about a week.
Procession in San Miguel
It is noted for Indian dances and fireworks from midnight to dawn in front of La Parroquia, fireworks at dawn, daily parades and processions (with an image of San Miguel) to various churches for a blessing. This is premiere event and dance and other performances are non-stop.