November 8 (Eastern Orthodox liturgics)

In the Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendar, November 8 is a major feast day commemorating the Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and all the Bodiless Powers of Heaven (the Angels).

This feast celebrates the entire angelic host, including:

• Archangel Michael: The leader of the heavenly hosts, traditionally depicted as a warrior angel.
• Archangel Gabriel: The messenger of God, known for announcing the Incarnation to the Virgin Mary.
• Archangel Raphael: The healer and protector of travelers.
• Archangel Uriel: The illuminator of souls and bringer of divine light.
• Archangel Selaphiel: The angel of prayer.
• Archangel Jehudiel: The angel of praise and repentance.
• Archangel Barachiel: The angel of blessings.
• And all the other bodiless powers of heaven, including the Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, and Authorities.

The feast is a celebration of the important role the angels play in God's creation and in the salvation of humankind. It is a day for prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving for the protection and guidance of the holy angels.

Liturgically, the feast is celebrated with an All-Night Vigil, followed by the Divine Liturgy on the morning of November 8. Special hymns and readings are prescribed for the feast day that extol the virtues and powers of the angels. Iconographically, the Archangel Michael is a prominent figure on icons related to this day, usually depicted leading the heavenly hosts.