One of the seven archangels. Gabriel is the messenger of God, the Archangel of good news, new beginnings and strength (his name is translated “God is my strength”). He brought the news of the birth of the Messiah to Mary, and also announced the birth of John the Baptist to Elizabeth and Zachariah. As he is associated with birth, hope and hew beginnings, traditionally he is represented in green. Archangels in icons are holding staffs and spheres.