Guardian Angels
by Fridolin Leiber
German postcard 1900
When I was growing up, we had a cherished picture that was quite similar to the one above, which hung on the wall of the bedroom I shared with my sister. This image marked my very first encounter with the concept of a Guardian Angel, a notion that filled our space with a sense of comfort and protection. In contrast to this, the pictures we see circulating in the media today often depict Angels as striking, superhero-like beings adorned in shiny armor, or featuring facial characteristics reminiscent of fashion models who certainly look capable of kicking butt! But who, or perhaps what, are Guardian Angels really?
“Each man has an angel guardian appointed to him. This rests upon the fact that the guardianship of angels belongs to the execution of Divine providence concerning men” (Summa Theologiae 1.113.2).
I can certainly say, without a doubt, that there were numerous occasions throughout my life when I had a definite Guardian Angel watching over me and actively looking out for my well-being! I bet you can relate to this experience as well. It is truly comforting to know that we have a heavenly being specifically assigned to each of us, diligently "watching our six" in times of need. The discussion and mention of angels can be traced back in the scriptures of the Bible. “For he commands his angels with regard to you, to guard you wherever you go. With their hands they shall support you, lest you strike your foot against a stone” (Psalm 91:11–12). Even in Matthew 18:10, says, “The worth of souls is so great that from birth each one has an angel assigned to him for his protection.” No matter how we look at, we are never alone. That is how much God loves us!
"The angel is the daily door toward transcendence, to the encounter with the Father," Pope Francis said. "The angel helps me walk along the path because he looks at the Father who knows the way.
I am deeply grateful for my Angel, a presence that brings a sense of peace and comfort into my life. God created an incredible multitude of angels—so many that we can hardly comprehend their vast number—yet He has chosen to reveal the names of only three angels to mankind in Sacred Scripture: St. Gabriel, St. Michael, and St. Raphael. To me, it truly does not matter in the slightest which name I might assign to my angel; rather, I find immense comfort in knowing that I, and we as a collective whole, have a guardian angel by our side at all times, silently watching over us. Their divine role in our lives is one of guidance and protection, and that, to me, is more than enough to foster a deep sense of trust and reliance. Below are some familiar prayers that offer a connection to this comforting presence.
Angel of God
"Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here, ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen"
Night Prayer
"Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love entrusts me here, ever this night (day) be at my side to light, to guard, to rule, and to guide. From sinful stain O keep me free, and at death's hour, my helper be. Amen"
Thank You my Sweet Guardian Angel!
Feast day October 2
More on angels from Fr. Mike. Enjoy!
Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
