The holy guardian angels: guardians of our souls how important are they to us?

In 1670, Pope Clement X granted an official holiday on October 2 to honor the guardian angels.

"Be careful not to despise one of these little ones, because I tell you that their angels in heaven always look at the face of my heavenly Father." - Matthew 18:10

References to angels are numerous in both the Old and New Testament of the Bible. Some of these verses of angels lead us to understand that all people have their own private angel, a guardian angel, who guides them throughout life on earth. In addition to Matthew 18:10 (above) which provides clear support for this concept, Psalm 91: 11-12 also gives reason to believe:

Since he commands his angels concerning you,

to protect you wherever you go.

With their hands they will support you,

so as not to hit your foot against a stone.

Another verse to ponder is Hebrews 1:14:

Are not all minister spirits sent to serve, for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?

The word angel comes from the Greek word angelos, which means "messenger". The primary task of all angels is to serve God, often by conveying important messages to people on earth. Guardian angels also serve God by watching over assigned people, often giving them subtle messages and pushes, striving to keep them safe and turned to God throughout their lives.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:

From its inception until death, human life is surrounded by their careful care and intercession [of the angels]. “Next to every believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd who leads him to life”. —CCC 336

Devotion to guardian angels is ancient that appears to have begun in England, where there is evidence of special masses that honored these protective spirits as early as AD 804. Many historians believe that the ancient British writer, Reginald of Canterbury, wrote the classic prayer, Angel of God. In 1670, Pope Clement X granted an official holiday, October 2, to honor the guardian angels.

Angel of God

Angel of God, my dear guardian,

to which his love commits me here.

Never this day / night be by my side

enlighten and guard, govern and guide.

Amen.

Three days of reflection on the holy guardian angels

If you feel attracted to your guardian angel or guardian angels in general, try contemplating the following verses over a three-day period. Write down any thoughts that come to your mind, pray for the verses, and ask your Guardian Angel to help you draw closer to God.

Day 1) Psalm 91: 11-12
Day 2) Matthew 18:10
Day 3) Hebrews 1:14