His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the nature of angels and their role in the lives of believers and in God’s divine order.
He explains that angels are pure spiritual beings created without bodies or gender, living in complete holiness and purity. They do not marry and cannot sin after passing the test of obedience; those who fell became demons, while those who stood firm received the crown of righteousness and never fall again.
Angels are characterized by instant obedience to God, executing His commands at once without hesitation. That is why in the Lord’s Prayer we say, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” meaning with the same perfect obedience of the angels.
They are also marked by light, beauty, and purity, and their faces shine with glory as was said about Saint Stephen’s face. Angels move swiftly, traveling from heaven to earth in an instant, without any physical distance or time delay.
His Holiness explains the orders and ranks of angels: the cherubim and seraphim who praise continuously, and the archangels like Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, each with a special mission.
He highlights the relationship between believers and angels—angels love and protect humans; churches are built in their names, and feasts such as that of Archangel Michael are celebrated in their honor.
The angels’ works include:

• Rescue: such as saving Daniel from the lions’ den and Peter from prison.

• Guidance: such as directing Cornelius and Philip.

• Annunciation: such as Gabriel’s messages to the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds.
  Finally, His Holiness affirms that angels surround the Church and believers, joining them in worship and service, and will gather God’s chosen ones on the Last Day.
  Thus, angels are a model of purity, light, and perfect obedience—a call for us to live likewise in holiness and submission to God’s will.

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