Angels, divine messengers of God, captivate our hearts. Is that too broad a statement? Perhaps. But it is fair to say that most of us long for divine intervention, especially when life takes an unexpected turn. What we often call coincidences may actually be ‘God-incidents’—moments where God orchestrates or intervenes in ways that seem too perfect to be mere chance. We tend to attribute it to accidents when we cannot logically explain how things align so beautifully. But accidents, by definition, are simply events we did not foresee. From a faith perspective, we trust that nothing escapes God’s notice. If God, in His infinite wisdom, willed everything into being, nothing happens outside His knowledge. This truth speaks to God’s nature, and it is through His angelic messengers, these divine beings, that He often carries out His will. Today, we celebrate those angels whose mission is to guard, guide, and protect us on our earthly journey toward eternity.
How Do We Know About Angels?
Our understanding of angels comes from Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Church. Throughout the Bible, angels are seen as God’s protectors of His people. For example, Exodus 23:20, Psalms 91:11, and Matthew 18:10 reference their work as guardians. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus tells us not to despise the “little ones,” for their angels always behold the face of the Father. In John 1:51, Jesus describes angels “ascending and descending on the Son of Man,” a sign of their active ministry.
We also see angels minister to Jesus Himself during key moments in His life: after His temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11) and in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:43) as He prepared for His Passion. Angels announced Jesus’ birth and were present at His resurrection (Matthew 28:2, Mark 16:5). Clearly, angels are God’s messengers, sent to support His mission. If Jesus needed angels during His time on earth, how much more do we need their assistance in our lives and vocations?
Can We Know Our Guardian Angels?
Yes, if God grants us the grace to do so. Each believer has a guardian angel, assigned by God, who is a constant, unwavering presence on their journey toward eternal life. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: ‘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. Already here on earth, the Christian life shares by faith in the blessed company of angels and men united in God (CCC 336). In other words, you are infinitely precious to God, and He has given you an angel to watch over you.
How to Develop a Relationship with Your Guardian Angel
Angels only do the will of God. We must align ourselves with God’s will to build a deeper relationship with our guardian angels. This does not mean that our angels stop watching over us when we fall into sin or lose sight of grace—God never abandons us. Your guardian angel is constantly present, even in the most difficult times. However, we can become more aware of our angel’s guidance by simplifying our lives. Clear away distractions that prevent us from recognizing their presence. When we make room for God, we also make room for our guardian angels’ gentle, protective influence.
In moments of uncertainty or need, let the guardian angels guide you. Know they are always near, commissioned by God to guard and lead you along your path.
