OK, this column is more relevant as I am writing it, the Memorial of the Guardian Angels (Oct. 2), as I prepare to leave on vacation, but I still found it interesting and I hope you do as well.
While sometimes written off as merely a popular devotion, the existence of angels is a doctrine of the Catholic faith. The Catechism of the Catholic Church notes, “As purely spiritual creatures angels have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal creatures, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures, as the splendor of their glory bears witness” (CCC #330). St. Augustine noted that strictly speaking the word “angel” designates these spiritual creatures’ office, not their nature; that they are messengers. Based on one of the letters of St. Paul, the Church teaches that there are nine choirs, or groups, of angels, in this order: Seraphim, Cherubim, Thrones, Dominions, Virtues, Powers, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels.
The Supreme category of angels are Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones. Seraphim are the “Worshippers” of God, and the name means “burning love.” Cherubim are the “Guardians” of the things of God. The Thrones carry out God’s justice.
The Middle category of angels is comprised of the Dominions, Virtues, and Powers. The Dominions rule the lower angels. The Virtues perform miracles, and the Powers fight against evil forces.
Finally there is the Lower category of angels, made up of the Principalities, Archangels, and Angels. The Principalities have the responsibility of distributing the spiritual goods that God pours out on creation. The Archangels are the special “Assistants” of God, and are entrusted special missions, like the Annunciation by the Archangel Gabriel. Finally there are the Angels who help people reach heaven by guiding and protecting them from dangers to the soul and body. God assigns an angel to each person from the first moment of our creation (so before even our baptism). These “guardian angels” are a sign of how God loves each of us in a personal, individual way. “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” (CCC #336).