Guardian Angels

Guardian AngelGuardian Angel

The Angel of Peace by Wilhem von Kaulbach

From the classification of the angelic hosts by the early theologians, and the special duties assigned to each class, we learn that the word angels, as ordinarily used, refers to archangels and angels only; these two classes are associated with human life in all its phases . . . . . . → Read More: Guardian Angels

Seven Holy Angels

Seven Holy Angels - 1

Angel Pictures

There have been many curious conceits introduced into some of the early religious pictures, and two instances in which little seraphim and angels are perched on trees, near the Virgin and Holy Child. The idea seems to be that these “Birds of God” — as Dante calls the angels — are making music and singing for the Divine Infant, some of them also praying for his solace. . . . → Read More: Seven Holy Angels

Archangel Raphael: Part 2

This entry is part 2 of 2 in the series Archangel Raphael

Archangel Raphael 1

Santa Eufemia, Verona – Interior

Raphael is frequently represented without wings when leading Tobias, who — in order to emphasize the contrast between an angel and a mortal — is made very small, and is thus manifestly out of keeping with the story. When the wings appear there is no reason for dwarfing Tobias, and the picture is far more satisfactory. It is not difficult to discern that if the story of Tobias is considered as an allegory, the young man personates the Christian, guided and guarded through life by God’s mercy. . . . → Read More: Archangel Raphael: Part 2

Archangel Raphael: Part 1

This entry is part 1 of 2 in the series Archangel Raphael

Archangel Raphael 3Archangel Raphael

The Archangel Raphael is esteemed as the guardian angel of the human race. He especially protects the young and innocent, and guards pilgrims and travelers from harm. It was he who warned Adam of the danger of sin, and declared to him its dread consequences. . . . → Read More: Archangel Raphael: Part 1

Archangel Michael: Part 3

This entry is part 3 of 3 in the series Archangel Michael

Archangel Michael -Castle of Sant' Angelo, Rome St. Michael at the Castle of San’ Angelo, Rome by Matthias Kabel

In the legends of St. Michael we read that in the sixth century, when the plague was raging in Rome, and processions threaded the streets chanting the service since known as the Great Litanies, the Archangel Michael appeared, hovering over the city. . . . → Read More: Archangel Michael: Part 3