You might be familiar with the archangels, but did you know that an entire hierarchy of angels exists in the spiritual realm?
Each of them serves a different purpose.
Saint Thomas Aquinas explained the angelic hierarchy in his notorious "Summa Theologiae." Each division includes three choirs of angels, and each class of these spiritual beings has a unique role and place.
The Church has never issued an official declaration on this. However, it is traditionally seen as a very structured environment.
According to EWTN,
“Angels are ranked into nine choirs, or categories, and divided into three hierarchies: seraphim, cherubim, and thrones; dominations, virtues, and powers; principalities, archangels, and angels.”
Here are some helpful infographics that summarize this:
I. Highest
- Seraphim: They worship God. Seraphim means “burning love.”
- Cherubim: “Guardians” of the things of God. They share deep insight.
- Thrones: They carry out God’s justice.
II. Middle
- Dominions: They rule over the lower angels to carry out God’s will and make known His authority.
- Virtues: They perform miracles.
- Powers: They fight against evil forces.
III. Lower
- Principalities: They distribute spiritual goods.
- Archangels: They are God’s assistants and fulfill special missions. They also protect the Church.
- Angels: They help people reach heaven! Guardian angels protect us from the dangers of body and soul.
The great saint Padre Pio once said,
“…What a consolation it is to know one is always in the care of a celestial spirit, who does not abandon us (how admirable) even when we disgust God! How sweet is this great truth for the believer! Who, then, does the devout soul fear who tries to love Jesus, having always close by such a great warrior?”
In an episode of EWTN’s “Living Divine Mercy,” Father Chris Alar shares more about the presence of angels in our lives.
You can watch the entire episode below:
"From infancy to death human life is surrounded by their (the angels) watchful care and intercession. Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life. Already here on earth the Christian life shares by faith in the blessed company of angels and men united to God." - Catechism of the Catholic Church, 336.