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Holy Guardian Angels
October 2, 2016
A feast of the Guardian Angels distinct from that of St. Michael was celebrated in Spain in the 16th century. In 1670 Clement X extended its celebration to the whole Church, placing it on October 2, the first free day after Michaelmas. The prime duty of the angels, who have already entered into everlasting glory, is the adoration of God and so in the Preface of the Mass we ask God to allow us to join our praise to theirs. But, as their name indicates, they are also God’s messengers, charged to carry out His behests and to watch over us. It is generally agreed that all Christian communities, countries, families, dioceses, churches and religious houses, have each their Guardian Angel; it is certain that every baptized Christian has his own. To each of us the Church applies what was written of God’s people under the Old Law: “I am sending My angel to go before thee and guard thee on thy way, and lead thee to the place I have made ready for thee.” Our Guardian Angel is commissioned to protect and defend us always against the cunning enemies of our soul and all adversities, so that we may reach the promised land of everlasting life. As our faithful companion, we owe him our gratitude; as a saint enjoying the vision of God in heaven, our veneration.