Guardian Angels

The notion of heavenly beings worshipping God and ready to do his bidding, has been taken from Jewish thought and placed in the heart of Christian worship.

The ancient Jews believed that angels served both individuals and nations. Jesus accepted this idea too. He said the angels would support him at his second coming. Once he took a little child and spoke to his followers about becoming like children and caring for them.

"See that you do not despise one of these little ones," Jesus said. "For I tell you that their angels always behold the face of my Father in heaven."

The notion of Guardian Angels is implicit in Our Lord's own teaching. And in his own life on earth they are recorded in the Gospels many times.

They minister to him in the wilderness and they care for him in the Garden of Gesthemane. Had he wished, they would have fought against his captors. They are present at his Resurrection.

The belief that we each have a Guardian Angel has been common to Christians for many centuries.

The picture of a guardian angel that we often see is an angel protecting a little child as he or she walks over a small bridge.

In 1608, Pope Paul V added today's feast to the calendar of saints and celebrations. It is very encouraging to know and believe that we each have an angel guarding and protecting us. Our Guardian Angel is a gift from our loving God.

St Bernard wrote: "In any great trouble, in any strong temptation, call upon your Guardian Angel who is your guide and your helper, in any difficulty and in any time of need."

Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love entrusts me here. Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.