Raphael

Today is the original feast day of Archangel Raphael. He is the healer, the element of water and the personification of the western gate.

Interesting wiki note: "The Hebrew word for a doctor of medicine is Rophe connected to the same root as Raphael."

This is a time to purify and heal with water: Steam in the shower, take a ritual bath with appropriate herbs, soaps or scents, swim, if possible. I like to drink blessed water:

I charge a pitcher of water with energy using different stones or tools, depending on the need. Sometimes I call upon deity to fill and bless it, sometimes I will do a day long novena over it (once an hour for 9 hours). You can even set it up within a crystal grid to bring in the energy of the stones. Once completed, I sit in sacred space, in a meditative state and literally drink in my intention. This isn't a sit-n-sip or think about your day and to do list kind of drink; Nor is it a drunken frat game where you chug it all down. This is reverently and consciously and on several planes bringing into your life and your physical body that which you want, or conversely, removing what you don't want. It can be a powerful exercise. It should be enough water for you to handle easily, but not so little that it takes no time at all. I use a liter of purified water.

And for hand dandy reference, here is the Novena to Saint Raphael the Archangel:

Glorious Archangel St. Raphael,
great prince of the heavenly court,
you are illustrious for your gifts of wisdom and grace.
You are a guide of those who journey
by land or sea or air,
consoler of the afflicted, andrefuge of sinners.
I beg you, assist me in all my needs
and in all the sufferings of this life,
as once you helped the young Tobias on his travels.


Because you are the "medicine of God,"
I humbly pray you to heal the many infirmities of my soul
and the ills that afflict my body.
I especially ask of you the favor
(state your specific request or intention here!)
and the great grace of purity to prepare me to be
the temple of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
St. Raphael, of the glorious seven
who stand before the throne of Him who lives and reigns,
Angel of health, the Lord has filled your hand with balm from heaven to soothe or cure our pains.
Heal or cure the victim of disease. And guide our steps when doubtful of our ways.

If you know the artist who created this lovely Gabriel image, please point me to them, I was sent this image and I don't know who to credit!