Angels

Angel (Latin - angelus, Greek - aggelos), meaning "messenger".

Angels are pure spirits, represented in the Bible as body of spiritual beings intermediate between God and man (thus the role of messenger).

They were created a notch higher than man (Psalm 8:6 - "You have made him(man) a little less than the angels"). According to the Scriptures, they have nine(9) choirs(or levels) in their hierarchy, each with their own role and responsibilities :

The Nine Choirs of Angels
#1 Seraphim
#2 Cherubim
#3 Thrones
#4 Dominions
#5 Virtues
#6 Powers
#7 Archangels
#8 Principalities
#9 Angels

It is as messengers that they most often figure in the Bible, but angels perform tasks other than bringing news and messages to man. More important than being messengers, Angels are God's attendants, ministering or acting as assistants to Him as described in Daniel 7:9-10.

Another important function of Angels is the assistance they give to us human. They are there to help us in difficult times, enlighten us when we are confused and fights the devil for our souls. Saint Thomas Aquinas said "We are like children, who stand in need of masters to enlighten us and direct us; and God has provided for this, by appointing his angels to be our teachers and guides".

The problem is when we don't allow them. Remember, we have Free Will to choose between ignoring them or seeking them for help. Let us take advantage of this enormous gift of mercy from Him and let this beautiful creation of God be part of our daily lives.

It was Saint Ambrose who said "But if these beings guard you, they do so because they have been summoned by your prayers".

Below are some of the most famous Angels. Please do click on their names to learn more about them and say prayers seeking their intervention.
1. Gabriel
2. Michael
3. Raphael
4. Your Guardian Angel

Angel Encounters
Angels are among us. You never know if it's that person standing next to you in an elevator, behind you in line at the market or even the pizza delivery guy! Saint Francis de Sales once said "Make yourself familiar with the angels, and behold them frequently in spirit; for without being seen (or noticed), they are present with you".

And there are many Angel encounters and stories. Stories of being saved by strange creatures, stories of miracles, stories of being comforted and enlightened in times of distress and confusion.

Below are some of the beautiful Angel Encounter stories from the web :
1.