by Carl Bloch
The feast day of the Guardian Angels is celebrated on October 2. The feast day was added to the Church Calendar in the year 1615 by Pope Paul V.
References to angels occur frequently in the bible. Jesus himself refers to angels saying:
“See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly father. ( Matthew 18:10)
An angel is mentioned at least 17 times in the New Testament. Two incidents which would indicate a guardian angel are the angel who delivered St. Peter from prison (Acts 5:19) and the angel who ministered to Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane. (Luke 22:39)
THE ANGEL WITH ST. PETER
19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors, brought them out, and said, “Go, stand in the temple and tell the people the whole message about this life.” When they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and went on with their teaching.
CHRIST PRAYING IN GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE
39 He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. When he reached the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not come into the time of trial.” Then he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.” Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength.
The function of the guardian angels is to strengthen,lead and guide us to the Kingdom of Heaven.
“Are not all angels spirits in the divine service went to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? “(Hebrews 1:14)
The Catechism of the Catholic Church declares in section 336 about guardian angels: “From infancy to 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.”
All of us at some time in our life need guidance and help during times of suffering and confusion. We turn to Jesus in prayer to lead us to everlasting life. Mary and the saints pray for us and are our role models. But we should also turn to our guardian angel and be grateful for all the unknown times we have been led down the correct path.
The angels rejoice and celebrate with Christ over the return of the Lord’s sheep…He sought us on earth; let us seek Him in heaven.
Quote of St. Peter Chrysologus; Feast day July 30
October is the Month of the Most Holy Rosary