Michaelmas

When did the Michaelmas start?

The first recorded date of Michaelmas being celebrated on September 29 was in the year 998 CE.

About Michaelmas Holiday

Michaelmas is a traditional Christian feast day, celebrated on September 29th each year. The feast day commemorates the Archangel Michael, who is the leader of all angels and a protector of entrusted to protect mankind. In the Christian tradition, he is seen as a symbol of power and protection against evil. Whilst the exact details of how the holiday is celebrated vary greatly from region to region, most places recognize Michaelmas by organizing special church services and carry out various traditional activities.

In the UK, Michaelmas marks the traditional beginning of the Autumn Term, when pupils return to school after the summer holidays. Almanacs were often published to mark the feast, with poems and proverbs coined by the scholars that praised the virtues of hard work, determination and general good conduct. In some rural areas, the holiday is celebrated with fairs and pageants, and some folk dances are performed. Traditional recipes such as Barmbrack (a type of fruit loaf) or Michaelmas goose (a roasted goose feast) are often part of the celebration.

Michaelmas – September 29

Michaelmas is an annual religious holiday celebrated by Christians on September 29. It is named after the Archangel Michael, one of the most important figures in the Bible and the patron saint of protection. Michaelmas has been celebrated since early Christianity and is still a major event in many countries. The holiday marks the end of the harvest season and often coincides with the start of a new academic or financial year. Throughout the years, it has taken on different meanings and traditions in various countries, but its main purpose remains the same: to honor the protector angel who has watched over humankind for centuries.

History of Michaelsmas

Michaelmas has been celebrated since early Christianity. The holiday was tied to the medieval calendar, during which it took place nine days after the Feast of the Assumption (August 15). One traditional belief is that Archangel Michael defeated Satan in a battle during this time. This notion is based on the story of Michael casting Lucifer out of Heaven, as mentioned in the Bible, and defeating him in the battle of the Apocalypse. The date was celebrated in ecclesiastical circles as a holiday, much like Christmas, Easter, or Pentecost.

By the 10th century, Michaelmas had taken on additional significance as the start of the academic year at Oxford University. It was also commonly marked as the start of the financial year, with accountants settling debts and businesses setting new terms. The holiday also fell close to the period of confession—when people would cleanse their souls and absolve their sins.

In time, other countries adopted Michaelmas, but it eventually fell out of favor in Europe during the Age of Enlightenment. However, the holiday still survives in some Anglican and Catholic churches as a special feast day.

Celebration of Michaelmas in Different Countries

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, Michaelmas is celebrated on September 29 and marks the end of harvest season. Traditionally, servant agreements were renewed in the weeks leading up to Michaelmas, and on the day itself, many families enjoyed a celebratory roast goose meal.

Michaelmas in the UK is also often referred to as the ‘Feast of Saint Michael and All Angels.’ Some churches will conduct afternoon services in honor of the patron saint and evening vigils, which usually involve music and readings from the Bible.

Australia

In Australia, Michaelmas is celebrated as a Christian feast day, but it is not widely observed. The focus is more on the traditional roast goose meal, which is typically accompanied by apple-pie or roasted potatoes.

The Christian meaning is not totally lost on the locals, though, with some churches holding special services in honor of the archangel and a few shops even selling decorations with Michael’s likeness.

India

India is home to a variety of religions, so Michaelmas is celebrated in a multitude of ways. Hindu and Sikh families observe the holiday by gathering with their friends and family to commemorate the day.

For Christians, Michaelmas takes on more of a liturgical meaning, with morning masses, processions, and special meals in honor of the archangel. Additionally, many people will take the opportunity to absolve their sins and start anew in the hopes of being forgiven.

United States

In the United States, Michaelmas is not widely celebrated, but certain Christian communities observe it occasionally. The holiday is usually associated with prayer and contemplation, and some churches will hold special evening services in Michael’s honor.

Michaelmas is also celebrated by some academic institutions, such as St. Michael’s College in Vermont. At the school, the holiday is marked with an afternoon celebration that includes speeches from the faculty, music, and a festive feast.

Conclusion

Michaelmas is an important religious holiday that dates back to early Christianity. The holiday marks the end of harvest season and often coincides with the start of a new academic or financial year. Traditionally, Michaelmas has taken on different meanings and various celebrations in different countries, but its main purpose remains the same – to honor the protector angel who has watched over humankind for centuries.

How to Say "Michaelmas" In Different Languages?