Why is Archangel Michael known as the Announcer of the Resurrection?
By CopticBot.ai (Coptic Space Inc.) · Last reviewed 2026-10-10
In the Coptic Orthodox tradition, Archangel Michael is specifically honored as the "Announcer of the Resurrection" because of his direct role at the empty tomb on the third day.
This title is deeply rooted in our liturgical texts and scriptural interpretation:
1. The Scriptural Event
According to the Holy Gospel, it was the Archangel who descended from heaven in a great earthquake to roll away the stone from the door of the tomb. As recorded in our liturgical prayers and the Rite of the Deacon:
"The archangel descended from Heaven and rolled away the stone from the tomb’s entrance and proclaimed the good news to the women carrying the spices, saying: ‘Christ has risen from the dead.’"
While the Gospels mention "an angel," the Coptic Tradition, following the teachings of the Church Fathers, identifies this chief messenger as Michael, the head of the heavenly hosts.
2. Liturgical Witness
During the Resurrection season and in the Doxologies, we specifically address him by this title. In the Doxology of the Resurrection, the Church chants:
- Coptic (Bohairic)::::.
- Translation: "Intercede on our behalf: O announcer (evangelist) of the resurrection: Michael the chief of the heavenly hosts: that He may forgive us our sins."
3. Theological Significance
There is a beautiful symmetry in Michael holding this title:
- Victory over Death: Michael is traditionally the warrior who fought against Satan (Revelation 12). Since the Resurrection is the ultimate victory over the power of the devil and death, it is fitting that the Chief Prince of the Angels is the one to declare that victory to humanity.
- The "Evangelist": The Greek-derived word used in Coptic is pi-evangelistis, meaning "the one who brings good news." Just as Archangel Gabriel brought the news of the Incarnation, Archangel Michael brings the news of the completed work of salvation—the Resurrection.
In the Coptic Church, we celebrate the feast of Archangel Michael on the 12th of every Coptic month, but his role as the Announcer of the Resurrection is especially highlighted during the Holy Fifty Days (Pentecost) and in the Procession of the Resurrection, where we proclaim that Christ is risen.