Looking up to the sky, Fr Sam said that he had asked for a sign from heaven that there are angels. No answer. His phone rang. Caller id: St Michael.

When Fr Sam related this incident during his homily, I found it particularly intriguing (and amused) as I had just watched a YouTube video that morning about the existence of angels. At the drop of a hat, many of us can probably recall a few angels being mentioned in the bible, like the Archangel Gabriel at the Annunciation or the angel at the tomb declaring that Jesus has risen or even Archangel Michael fighting off demons in the war in heaven.

We may have watched several TV renditions of what angels are like. Some Christians and non-Christians may question if angels are real.

Many years ago, a friend of mine was shocked to find out that dinosaurs once walked the earth when we visited a history museum, and that Dino was not just a cartoon creation.

So do you believe in angels? When we read the Bible, should we read Scripture in the literal sense or spiritual sense, what preconceived notions do we have about angels?  Are there the good, the bad, and the ugly?

 

What does the Catholic Church say about angels?

In the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC):

CCC #329…With their whole beings the angels are servants and messengers of God. Because they “always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven” they are the “mighty ones who do his word, hearkening to the voice of his word”.

CCC #330 As purely spiritual creatures angels have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal creatures, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures, as the splendour of their glory bears witness.

CCC #352 The Church venerates the angels who help her on her earthly pilgrimage and protect every human being.

 

So if we are to believe in angels, should we pray to them?

At our parish, we pray to St Michael the Archangel after the Eucharistic Celebration, and after our meetings and events in church. We ask for protection for ourselves, our loved ones, our children and the world. During the pandemic, I implored St Raphael for healing on those who were suffering.

Lest we forget, Christ alone is our Saviour.

Our faith and trust in our Lord first, and with that, trust in His promise:

Psalm 91:9-11
Because you have made the Lord your refuge,
the Most High your dwelling place,
no evil shall befall you,
no scourge come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways.

 

What about guardian angels?

Do we have one on each shoulder like we see in cartoons: a good angel on the right and an evil angel on the left?

CCC #336 From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession. “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.” Already here on earth the Christian life shares by faith in the blessed company of angels and men united in God.

And in our death, I would like to believe our guardian angel continues to walk with us until we make it to heaven. Their mission accomplished.

 

Guardian Angel Prayer

“Angel of God, my guardian dear,
to whom God’s love commits me here.
Ever this day be at my side,
to light, to guard, to rule, to guide.
Amen.”

 

If you have questions about angels or other beliefs of the Catholic faith, look out for our upcoming talks and/or bring your questions to St Luke’s Night. “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you many great and hidden things you have not known.” Jeremiah 33:3

 

Written by Karen R-Fong