Angel

The existence of the spiritual, non-corporeal beings that Sacred Scripture usually calls "angels" is a truth of faith. The witness of Scripture is as clear as the unanimity of Tradition. As purely spiritual creatures, angels have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal creatures, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures (CCC 328, 330).

Nature and Office

St. Augustine says: "'Angel' is the name of their office, not of their nature. If you seek the name of their nature, it is 'spirit'; if you seek the name of their office, it is 'angel': from what they are, 'spirit', from what they do, 'angel.'" With their whole beings, the angels are servants and messengers of God (CCC 329).

Christ and the Angels

Christ is the center of the angelic world. They are his angels: "When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him." They belong to him because they were created through and for him. From the Incarnation to the Ascension, the life of the Word incarnate is surrounded by the adoration and service of angels (CCC 331, 333).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have a guardian angel? Yes. From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by the watchful care and intercession of angels. Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life (CCC 336).

Are angels male or female? No. As purely spiritual beings, angels do not have physical bodies, DNA, or biological sex. Human descriptions of angels as male are symbolic of their strength and role as messengers (CCC 330).