A lecturer from the Department of Psychology at the Dnipro Institute of the Private Higher Educational Institution “IAPM,” a lawyer, and a psychologist from the Amur-Nyzhnodnipro District Branch of the State Institution “Probation Center” in the Dnipropetrovsk region, Eduard Abashia, informs as follows. Orthodox Christians who follow the Julian calendar on November 21 honor the holy archangels Michael and Gabriel. According to biblical tradition, archangels are angels who stay close to people and serve them.

Archangel Michael is known as the commander of the heavenly host. He fought against the angels who rebelled against God. His name (from the ancient Hebrew "Michael") translates as "one who is like God." The origin of this name is linked to the Christian legend of Lucifer's rebellion, the most powerful of angels, and his followers. Archangel Michael is believed to guide the souls of the deceased to the gates of paradise. On Orthodox icons, he is depicted as a warrior with a sword in his hand.

Archangel Gabriel is venerated alongside Michael, and his name originates from the ancient Hebrew name Gabriel, which translates as "man of God." Gabriel is considered the bearer of good news. According to Orthodox tradition, he announced to Saints Joachim and Anna the birth of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. He also revealed to the priest Zechariah the birth of John the Baptist. In Christian tradition, Gabriel rolled away the stone from Christ’s tomb and announced His Resurrection to the women.

The feast is believed to have originated in the 5th century when the Roman Emperor Arcadius (395–408) consecrated a church in honor of Saint Michael the Archistrategos. Later, Saint Gabriel also began to be venerated on this day.

We extend our congratulations to all Orthodox believers on this day and wish you peace and good news!