The Bible mentions only three archangels, Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. Each angel had a specific mission in salvation history, but they continue their protective help in the world, even though we may not see their invisible spiritual work. Michael, the captain of the Heavenly Host, Gabriel, the messenger of God, Raphael, the bringer of healing. Pope St John Paul II encouraged us all to pray to St Michael, after each Mass, for the protection of the Church.

Belief in archangels is an essential part of our Catholic faith, as the work of these archangels can be seen throughout the Bible. Our Roman Rite of the Catholic Church has assigned 29th September, this Monday, to be the feast of Ss Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. For many centuries this day was only reserved for St. Michael alone, something recorded in the 7^th century Gelasian Sacramentary. But after the Second Vatican Council, the Church wanted to further highlight all three archangels and grouped them all together on 29th September. Previously St Gabriel and St Raphael had separate feasts during different parts of the year. Now they are celebrated on a single day, connecting them to the neighbouring feast day of the Guardian Angels on 2nd October.

The Catechism tells us, “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading them to life.” Here are a few quick ways to connect with yours.

When we stop to think about our guardian angels, it’s natural to feel a sense of wonder and awe. God has given each of us an invisible and powerful spirit to protect us… What a gift!! These angels watch over the whole Church and each of us individually. The Catechism goes on to tell us:

“The whole life of the Church benefits from the mysterious and powerful help of angels… From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession.”

So, each of us has our own special companion angel. St Basil wrote, “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading them to life.”

If you’d like to grow closer to your angel, you can start with friendship: A greeting during our morning prayers or when we go to Mass. And don’t hesitate to ask more often for their help. Here are a few ideas. One of my friends asks his angel to make sure he wakes up on time when he has to get up extra early, perhaps for travel. “He never failed me,” he said.

Before beginning a work project, why not ask your guardian angel to send inspiration to help you write something that will be for God’s glory. In St Thomas Aquinas’ Summa, in a section on the holy angels – I’m paraphrasing it – but in essence he says that if a work of art is to glorify God and advance the Kingdom, he will send an angel of inspiration to help with the creation of the work. But we must ask God for this. He will force nothing upon us.

You might also ask for help with fortitude and perseverance when entering a tricky situation when you know you might experience temptation. Angels are great at giving that extra spiritual boost! And don’t forget to check out our latest Millenium Saint, St Carlo Acutis’ tips on the web, to befriend your angel and  deepen your relationship with him. (Just remember not to name your angel – God already gave them a name!)

Fr David Jones, OLW