Angels

Angels are purely spiritual creatures of intelligence and will — personal, immortal beings who surpass in perfection all visible creatures. Their existence is a defined truth of the Catholic faith (CCC 328, 330).

What Angels Are

Angels are not human beings who died and became heavenly. They are entirely distinct creatures — purely spiritual beings with no bodies, immense intelligence, and powerful will. They are not symbols or forces but real, personal beings (CCC 329–331).

Messengers and Servants

The word angel comes from the Greek angelos — messenger. Angels appear throughout Scripture as messengers and servants of God: Gabriel announcing the Incarnation to Mary, angels announcing the Resurrection, and countless appearances in the Old Testament (CCC 332–336).

Guardian Angels

The Church teaches that each person is assigned a guardian angel to protect and guide them throughout life. "See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father" (Matthew 18:10; CCC 336).

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there different kinds of angels? Yes. Scripture and Tradition speak of nine choirs in three hierarchies: Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones; Dominions, Virtues, and Powers; Principalities, Archangels, and Angels. Three archangels are named in Scripture: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael (CCC 335).