The Miracle of the Archangel Michael in Chonae or Colossae – September 6
The Feast of the Miracle of the Archangel Michael in Chonae stands as a powerful reminder of the divine protection and intercession that the saints and angels offer us. Celebrated on September 6th, this feast commemorates the miraculous event that took place in the ancient city of Chonae (also known as Colossae) in Asia Minor, where Archangel Michael intervened in a way that defies human comprehension.
The story of this miracle is rooted in the life of a humble man named Archippus, who lived in the 4th century and was dedicated to the service of a church near the city of Colossae. This church had been built over a sacred spring, believed to have miraculous healing properties due to the prayers and presence of the Archangel Michael.
Archippus, a pious believer, served faithfully at this church, spending his life in prayer and service. However, the pagans of the area, envious of the miraculous works happening through the spring and despising the growing Christian faith, plotted to destroy both the spring and the church. Their plan was to redirect two powerful rivers to flood the church and obliterate the sacred site.
In a moment of desperation, as the waters rushed violently toward the church, Archippus fervently prayed for divine help. And the Archangel Michael answered. Descending from heaven with a mighty presence, Michael struck the ground with his staff, creating a deep chasm into which the raging rivers were diverted, saving the church and the faithful. The place where the waters plunged is called “Chonae,” meaning “plunging” or “gaping,” in remembrance of this miracle.
This divine intervention not only saved the church and Archippus but also became a testament to the power of faith and the unshakable protection of the Archangels. Through Michael’s intercession, God showed His love for the faithful, proving that when we place our trust in Him, miracles happen—even in the face of overwhelming odds.
For us as Orthodox Christians, the Miracle of the Archangel Michael in Chonae serves as a powerful reminder of the heavenly protection we have through the angels, especially through the Archangel Michael, the commander of the heavenly hosts. He stands as a defender of the faithful, guarding against spiritual and physical threats, just as he did at Chonae.
This feast also invites us to reflect on our own lives. How often do we, like Archippus, face overwhelming challenges, both spiritual and worldly? And how often do we forget that we are never alone in our struggles? The Archangels, the saints, and our Lord Himself are always with us, ready to intercede and protect us when we call upon them with faith.
The Troparion of the Feast:
“O Commander of the heavenly hosts, we who are unworthy beseech you, by your prayers encompass us beneath the wings of your immaterial glory, and faithfully preserve us who fall down and cry to you: Deliver us from all harm, for you are the commander of the powers on high.”
As we celebrate this feast, let us be inspired by the faith of Archippus, the intervention of the Archangel Michael, and the profound truth that God’s love for His people knows no bounds. In times of trouble, let us remember this miracle and trust that the Archangels, the saints, and our Lord Himself are always with us.
May the Archangel Michael continue to watch over us and defend us in every trial we face, leading us ever closer to the Kingdom of Heaven.
The Miracle of the Archangel Michael in Chonae is more than just a historical event; it is a living testament to the power of prayer, faith, and divine protection. May we take comfort in knowing that, like the waters at Chonae, all the difficulties of life can be redirected and transformed through God’s grace and the intercession of His holy angels.
Let us ask for the protection and guidance of the Archangel Michael, not only in moments of crisis but in every step of our spiritual journey.
