Camminiamo insieme
September, the month of the Angels
Editrice Shalom
Tempo di lettura: 3 min
Autore: Editrice Shalom
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September is a month that invites us to lift our gaze toward the sky. After the summer period, when we often slow down and allow ourselves moments of reflection, the return to daily life can be accompanied by a deep desire for light, protection, and guidance. It is in this context that the Church invites us to reflect on the presence of the angels, spiritual creatures who accompany us with discretion and love.
Angels: God's messengers
Angels are spiritual creatures created by God to worship him, serve him, and act in the world as his messengers. Sacred Scripture presents them as protagonists in decisive moments in the history of salvation: they bring announcements, protect the righteous, fight evil, guide travelers, and comfort troubled hearts.
Their presence is discreet but powerful. They do not impose themselves or make a show of themselves, but act in silence, in mystery, and in light. They are a sign of God's closeness, his care for every creature, and his desire to accompany us on our journey through life.
The origin of devotion to the angels
Devotion to the angels has very ancient roots in Christian tradition. From the earliest centuries, the Church recognized angels as spiritual creatures who act as instruments of divine Providence. The Fathers of the Church, such as Saint Augustine and Saint Basil, wrote extensively about their role. Saint Thomas Aquinas defined them as “pure intelligences” and “ministers of Providence,” emphasizing their mission of guidance and protection.
Over the centuries, angelic spirituality has been enriched by prayers, devotional practices, and artistic representations. Angels have become companions on the journey of Christian life, symbols of light, discernment, and the divine presence.
Why is September the month of the angels?
The choice of September as the “month of the angels” is mainly linked to the liturgical feast of the three archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, celebrated on September 29. This date has a historical reason: in the 5th century, a basilica in honor of Saint Michael the Archangel was consecrated in Rome, and the date of its dedication was chosen as the day to celebrate him. Subsequently, the Church unified the celebration of the three archangels on this date, recognizing their fundamental role in the history of salvation.
Its placement in September, at the beginning of the pastoral and school year, also has symbolic significance: angels are seen as guides and protectors on life's journey, and their feast becomes an opportunity to entrust every new beginning to God through them.
The three archangels: Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael
Saint Michael, the great warrior against evil, is the archangel who leads the heavenly hosts in the battle against the forces of darkness. His name means “Who is like God?” and he has been invoked for centuries as protector of the Church and defender of the faith.
Saint Gabriel, the messenger of good news, is the one who announces to Mary the birth of Jesus. His name means “Strength of God” and symbolizes hope, divine communication, and joyful proclamation.
Saint Raphael, the healer, is the angel who accompanies Tobiah on his journey and heals his blind father. His name means “Medicine of God” and is a sign of consolation, guidance, and providence.
These three archangels speak to us of a God who draws near, communicates, heals, and protects. Their feast is an invitation to rediscover the beauty of the spiritual dimension and to live our relationship with heaven with greater awareness.
Angelic spirituality today
In a world that is often hectic and disoriented, the presence of angels reminds us that we are not alone. It invites us to slow down, listen, and trust. Angels speak to us of silence, light, and harmony. They help us discern, choose what is good, and walk in truth.
Angelic spirituality is not escapism, but depth. It is a way to live faith more intensely, to open your heart to God's presence, and to let yourself be guided by those who love us unconditionally.
September is the month of angels. A time to open your heart to their presence, to let yourself be guided, and to experience the beauty of faith with greater awareness. May it be a month of light, protection, and communion with heaven.
