Guardian angels occupy an important place in Christian tradition and the understanding of the Christian faith.
In the Old Testament, angels frequently appear as messengers from God sent to deliver messages, carry out specific missions or bring comfort and reassurance to those in need. For example, the archangel Raphael is described in the Book of Tobit as the angel who accompanies Tobias on his perilous journey and brings him healing and protection.
In the New Testament, angels continue to play an active role in salvation history. The angel Gabriel was sent to the Virgin Mary to announce the birth of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38). Similarly, angels appear to the shepherds to announce the birth of the Saviour (Luke 2:8-14).
Although the notion of guardian angels as we understand it today is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, several passages suggest that angels are charged with watching over and protecting the faithful. For example, in the Book of Psalms it says: "For he will command his angels to guard you in all your ways" (Psalm 91:11).
The Catholic Church teaches that each person is endowed with a personal guardian angel who watches over, protects and guides them throughout their earthly life. This belief is based on tradition and theological reflection, which see angels as messengers and protectors sent by God to watch over his people and assist the faithful in their journey of faith.
In conclusion, although the Bible does not explicitly speak of "guardian angels", it clearly presents angels as messengers and protectors sent by God to watch over the faithful, guide them in their faith and protect them from dangers. Belief in the existence and role of guardian angels is deeply rooted in Christian tradition and continues to bring comfort, reassurance and hope to believers around the world.
