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WHO ARE THE ANGELS ?


ANGELS

Etymology
The word ‘angel’ is derived from the Greek word ‘angelos’ which is the translation of the Hebrew word ‘mal’kah’ and in Latin ‘angelus’ all of which mean “messenger from God or Legate”. They were viewed at first as the personification of the will of God, then as members of a Heavenly Host, that is, army of the court of God the King.
THE NATURE OF ANGELS
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, angels are purely spiritual creatures who have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal creatures, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures, as the splendor of their glory bears witness.
THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS
Ministry is defined as the work of a minister, and a minister is a person who cares for somebody.
Scott Hahn in his work “angels” presents the ministry of angels as to announce the divine will; to rebuke, encourage, assist, punish, teach and to execute judgment. They serve as key mediators between God and man. For instance, angels were sent by God to assist a number of individuals: Hagar(Gen. 16:7, 21:17), Abraham (Gen. 18, 22:11), Jacob( Gen. 28:12) and so on.
HIERARCHY OF ANGELS
Here is a fascinating and interesting area about angels. Indeed there are hierarchies and orders among angels. In fact, scriptures list various types of angels, and not all angels are equal.
St. Thomas Aquinas, a great master of the system refined the list and divided angels based on how near they are to God this way;
The Supreme Hierarchy
Seraphim – Cherubim – Thrones
Middle Hierarchy
Dominations – Virtues – Powers
Lower Hierarchy
Principalities – Archangels – Angels
The first three levels see and adore God directly
The Seraphim is the highest choir, comprehend God with maximum clarity, and their love flames the hottest (Seraphim means the burning ones). Lucifer, the light bearer belongs to this and he was powerful and is still powerful.
The Cherubim contemplate God too, function as attendants of God. (Cherubim means fullness of wisdom and with admirable knowledge)
The Thrones contemplate God’s power and Judgment. Thrones mean juridical power.
The next three choirs fulfill God’s providential plans for the universe
The dominions command the lesser angels below them.
The virtues receive their orders from the dominions and run the universe, especially the heavenly bodies.
The Powers serve the virtues by fighting against evil influences that oppose the Virtue’s providential plan.
The last three choirs directly order human affairs, they are like warriors
The Principalities care for the earthly cities, nations and kingdoms.
The Archangels carry out God’s important messages to man.
Angels are ordinarily guardians. One for each individual.
Fr Lawrence Ogundipe sdv 

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