Angels

the role of angels, and bases his words on biblical texts and examples from the history of salvation. He clarifies that mentioning angels is present in the church prayers and that asking God to surround us with His angels is a request for strength and holiness.

Nature of Angels

Angels are spirits and fire, mentioned as angels of light; they are distinguished by beauty, righteousness, and holiness, and by lightness of movement that enables them to move between the heavens and the earth instantly to carry out God’s commands.

Their Powers and Works

Angels are powerful beyond human capacity; they are able to enact judicial actions (such as the destroying angel in Exodus and the stories of David, Sennacherib, and Herod), and to confront the devil as we understand from Michael’s battle with the devil.

Their Relationship to Humans

Angels deliver people from afflictions, bless persons, close the mouths of beasts (Daniel’s story), free prisoners (Peter’s story), guard individuals and guide them (Psalm: He commands his angels concerning you…). They also guide and announce good news — like Gabriel with the Virgin and Zechariah and Joseph.

In Worship and the Church

Angels participate in prayer: they carry people’s prayers to God and present them (the incense ascending with the prayers of the saints in Revelation). The church is seen as the house of angels, and lights, symbols, and icons remind of their presence. We mention their names in prayers and ask for their intercession.

In Salvation and Eternal Destiny

Angels gather God’s elect at the final assembly, and they carry the souls of the righteous to paradise (the story of Lazarus and the carrying by angels). The destiny of believers is to be with the angels in the heavenly Jerusalem.

Call to Imitation and Friendship

The Divine Liturgy and prayers request the presence of angels, and the intent is also that we imitate the angels in righteousness, holiness, and immediate obedience to God, and that we embrace their intercession and seek their help in our daily lives.

Conclusion

The lecture urges the faithful to repeat the petition: “Surround us, O Lord, with Your holy angels” with sincere hearts, so that they may obtain protection, power, and holiness, and to have friendship and true spirituality with the angels in worship and life.