Today is the feast of the Guardian Angels!
God has given each one of us the incredible gift of our own angel. We rarely see or hear them with our senses, but they are always at our side—encouraging us toward good actions and away from bad ones, assisting us at Mass and prayer, and acting as our battle-buddy in the daily struggle with temptation. They guard us from danger and help us with everyday tasks.
Some saints were given the extraordinary privilege of actually seeing and conversing with their guardian angels.
Padre Pio was in regular communication not only with his own guardian angel, but also with other guardian angels, who informed him when their humans were in need of prayer.
Once, when a spiritual child of Pio’s named Cecil was injured in a car accident, Cecil’s friend decided to send a telegram to Padre Pio to ask for his prayers. But when this friend went to the telegram desk to send the message, a telegram was given to him. Padre Pio already knew about the accident and promised his prayers for Cecil. When later asked how he had known, the good Padre said, “Do you think the angels go as slowly as the planes?”
He said to another of his spiritual children:
Develop the beautiful habit of always thinking of him [your guardian angel]; that near us is a celestial spirit, who, from the cradle to the tomb, does not leave us for an instant, guides us, protects us as a friend, a brother; will always be a consolation to us especially in our saddest moments.
St. Gemma Galgani, a contemporary of Padre Pio, also had a wonderful friendship with her angel. In his biography of her, her spiritual director writes:
The visible presence of her Angel Guardian, with which Gemma was singularly favored by God, was for her one of the most natural experiences. Her Angel used to talk to her as ordinary mortals talk to their friends.
Gemma even gave her angel letters to take to God, Our Lady, her patron saints, and to her spiritual director!
Never forget your guardian angel. He is your Heaven-sent guide through all the paths of your life, ready to help you in all your difficulties, great or small. Entrust your children, grandchildren, and godchildren to their guardian angels—they will be sure protectors over them as they grow! This charming Guardian Angel Prayer Print is a perfect angelic touch to a child’s room or nursery! Available here at The Catholic Company!
