His Holiness Pope Shenouda III offers a meditation on the world of angels and their constant presence around man, explaining that they are luminous ministering spirits commanded by the obedience to God. He distinguishes between two kinds of angels: angels of praise and angels of service, and that they have many works from guidance and rescue to punishment and divine announcement.

Characteristics of the angels and their functions

The angels are luminous, holy, strong and filled with purity and sanctity. They are famed for immediate obedience without debate or deliberation, and they execute God’s command quickly. They have many ranks and orders (seraphim, thrones, cherubim, powers, princes…) and Michael stands out as the chief of the angels, defender of God’s people.

Biblical examples and their role in salvation

The speaker cites many biblical stories: the rescue of Peter, Joshua, Daniel and the three youths, the angels in the Annunciation, the Nativity and the Resurrection, and their presence in end-times events as they accompany Christ at the Coming and perform the sorting and retribution.

The spiritual and educational dimension (from a Coptic Orthodox faith perspective)

The spiritual message encourages believers to imitate the angels in obedience and holiness: that a person’s will be executed without doubt and that he seeks to have his life filled with sanctity and prayers. He also encourages establishing a friendship with the angels and asking for their intercession and presence in prayers and liturgies.

Practical application for the believer

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III calls believers to integrate the angels into their spiritual life: mention them in your prayers, ask for their protection and guidance, and pursue holiness so that you do not drive angels away from you by a sin that shames their sanctity. He also clarifies the importance of not isolating oneself and walking alone but asking for angelic care.

Brief conclusion

Angels are partners in the journey of salvation: servants, heralds, guardians, and at times executors of God’s punishment. Belief in their existence should lead to deeper obedience, sanctification of daily life, and continually seeking their care and intercession.

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