V /. Ad Angelos Custodes.
R /. Sancti Angeli Custodes nostri, deféndite nos in proélio ut non pereamus in tremendo iudício.
One of the articles of Faith we Christians hold dear and true in our hearts is the existence of Angels. Angels are God’s creatures that stand before Him in Heaven. We also believe that to every soul, God has granted a special companion whom we call our Guardian Angel. They are meant to help us, be our guide, and protect us from harm.
I have often felt the beauty of this reality which, especially in our busied and hurried lives, reminds us of how important it is to ground ourselves to realities not merely of this earth but of those that transcends our very nature.
It is somewhat disheartening to see that far fewer people now believe in the reality of angels, and as yet, even far less believe in any reality beyond what they can see. What seemed to have grounded us to the rational order has enslaved us to a myopic view of reality bereft of the fundamental truths that even the ancient philosophers have pondered and sought to answer (though perhaps in a limited sense) – why do we exist? What is the purpose of our existence?
The belief in Angels being far from an arcane or medieval construct may opens for us modern people the opportunity to seek refuge from the noisy realities of our daily life; contemplate a nature that is perhaps beyond but nevertheless as real as the one we live in and find succor and strength in a reality that speak of faith, hope and fraternity.
Angels have always been quiet helpers for me interceding at the Throne of Grace. Sometimes, it could be as simple as making sure that the rain will stop, or to help convince another person about a particular good which is often difficult to say, or strengthen me in an interior struggle that seemed difficult. Many would say this to be a childish endeavor perhaps even frivolous – awaste of time. Yet time and time again, I have found my heavenly helpers to be ready and able. For me the angels are not just mere assistants, that aid in our time of need, they are by their very nature a reminder of those other worldly realities and the hope that comes in the belief that this life though short will bring us to the glory of the next life that is set apart for us in Heaven.
Dearest Guardian Angel, keep us away from harm, protect us from the evil one, and join us in the hope that comes from the light of Christ our Lord. Amen.
FilipiNew 