Homily: The Feast of the Arch Angels

Homily: The Feast of the Arch Angels (John 47:51) “Do Not Fear”

Angels are said to be pure spirit. They have no bodies. They live in that space that is between us and God. Often, we hear the preface at Mass which describes the feast that we are celebrating. Some of the prefaces describe how the heavenly court is arranged.

If we think of a medieval King or Queen, we know that they would arrange their advisors in a certain order. Their chancellor, for example, would be very close to the monarch’s ear. Other less influential ministers would be farther away in the room.

Thomas Aquinas described a hierarchy of angels. When we reflect on God’s heavenly throne room there are choirs of angels. The most powerful of the angels are the ones who are closest to God. Aquinas and others gave names to the groups of angels.

The angels flanking God would be the Archangels. We notice how the names of three archangels all end with “el.” El is a name for God. It is the shortened version of Elohim which means Lord. The fact that the Archangels have “el” in their name shows how powerful they are.

As we move away from God there are lesser angels. The names unfold in several of the prefaces for Mass like this. First, we hear about Thrones then the Dominions. After that we hear of the Hosts and Powers of Heaven. All these names describe the different types of angels. There is a sense of awe and mystery in all of this.

We may hear at times in scripture how we will be protected from thrones and dominions and powers. The implication is that Jesus is more powerful than any of these entities.

When we are a little afraid of these heavenly beings, we should remember the message that the Archangels bring to the earth more than once. The message is, “Do not be afraid.” The Angels are most often not the bearers of God’s wrath, but of his protection and love.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Did I know that the thrones and dominions were angels? Does this cause me to read scripture differently?

2.   Which Archangel is my favorite? What are the functions of Michael, Gabriel and Raphel?

Dear Parishioners,

       The Peoria Diocese is currently engaged in what is known as the Growing Disciples program in our diocese. This is a strategic planning process. We are trying to evaluate the church’s resources and decide how to use them more efficiently. We have many challenges.

          We have been engaged in this process for the last two years. There will be a meeting on October 18th at 7 p.m. in the Gathering Center where we will see the results of the study so far. I would invite everyone to put this event on your calendar. You will have an opportunity to give your feedback.  

          This is an important moment in the history of our diocese.

          May all the angels intercede for us,

          Fr. Mark