Memorial of the Holy Guardian Angels
“The Memorial of Holy Guardian Angels” sounds like something for the liturgical calendar of children. Yet in truth it bespeaks an emphasis of the “good news.” It reminds Jesus’ disciples of God’s particular concern for the weakest members of society.
Perhaps because so many children died in ancient societies, they
were not considered very important.
Jesus, however, underlines their value when he says that each child has
an angel to look after him or her. Their
angels are not the ordinary kind either but ranking members of the heavenly realm. They have direct access to the Father.
Contemporary society seems to cherish children more
earnestly. It has made many laws
protecting them from abuse. Yet many children
suffer without two parents in the home caring for them. Today’s memorial does not only say that
children have spiritual protectors. It also
reminds us of our responsibility to care for them and other vulnerable people.
