There Are Angels in Our Midst

During October, we celebrate the angels.

You might be thinking, "Oh, no. Not another bizarre story about angels." Perhaps we even roll our eyes at the thought. 

Well, this past Sunday, on the Feast of the Guardian Angels, here is what Pope Benedict XVI said:

"Dear friends, the Lord is always near and working in human history, and he also accompanies us with the unique presence of his angels, whom the Church venerates today as 'guardians,' that is, ministers of the divine care for every man. From the beginning until the hour of death, human life is surrounded by their unceasing protection." [ZENIT, 10/02/11] 

Think of the key words: guardians, surrounded, protection.

I recall my 1st grade teacher, Sister Mary Clare, telling us to move over in our seats at school. Why? To make room for our guardian angels!

As spiritual beings, the angels did not need the space, but this was our simple way of grasping the thought that we were "surrounded and protected." We may never see or hear them, but we trust in God's fidelity that He gives us these wonderful protectors and guides throughout our lives.

Then God goes one step further by giving us the men and women of our armed forces, police, firefighters, paramedics and security officers to watch over and help us. 

We may never see or hear them, but they are there 24/7, guarding, surrounding, protecting.  

I think Sister Mary Clare would tell us to make room for these angels, too, in our prayers and hearts.  

Let us thank God each day for all of these "angels in our midst."