What does the Church teach about angels?

Angels are real, personal beings created by God. They are pure spirits who worship Him, carry out His commands, and serve His plan for creation and salvation.

What angels are. The existence of angels is a truth of the faith, witnessed by Scripture and taught consistently by the Church (CCC 328). Angels have intelligence and will. Because they have no bodies by nature, they are called spiritual creatures. They are personal and immortal, and their splendor reflects the glory of their Creator (CCC 329-330). Human beings do not become angels after death. Angels and humans are distinct kinds of creatures.

What angels do. The word "angel" describes a mission or office: a messenger of God. Scripture shows angels praising God, announcing His will, protecting His people, and assisting in His work. Gabriel announces the Incarnation to Mary (Lk 1:26-38). Angels minister to Christ after His temptation and strengthen Him in Gethsemane (Mt 4:11; Lk 22:43). They announce His Resurrection and will accompany Him when He returns in glory (Mt 28:2-7; 25:31). The whole life of the Church benefits from their hidden help (CCC 331-335).

Their relationship to Christ. Angels belong entirely to Christ because they were created through Him and for Him (Col 1:16). They adore the Son of God and serve His kingdom. At Mass, the Church joins their heavenly praise, especially in the Sanctus: "Holy, holy, holy." Catholic devotion to angels should always lead toward God, never replace Him. Adoration belongs to God alone.

Good angels and fallen angels. God created every angel good. Some freely rejected Him and became Satan and the demons (CCC 391-393). The good angels remained faithful and now behold God. Traditional names such as Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael come from Scripture. The Church also speaks of ranks or choirs of angels, drawing upon biblical titles such as thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers (Col 1:16), though Scripture does not give a complete map of the angelic world.

In practice. Thank God for the angels and ask for their help in accordance with His will. Avoid attempts to contact spirits, discover an angel's private name, or use occult practices. A simple prayer to St. Michael or your guardian angel keeps devotion centered on God's protection and providence.