October 2. Guardian Angels.    There is a long tradition in the Church of devotion to our Guardian Angels but it has rather faded in recent years while an interest in angels in the wider world has grown, at times in quite esoteric ways. Sometimes they are portrayed as cute cuddly little creatures, sometimes as avengers at the gate of heaven or hell.  It is our belief that from infancy to death, alone, as couples or families, we are surrounded by the watchful care and intercession of the angels who are always in the presence of God. Byron noted,  “I wonder how many of us associate the worlds of the hymn “On Eagle’s Wings” with Guardian Angels, which it really should be.”  The devotion can be a real comfort to us in our families, especially to children as they pray. “Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here. Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide Amen.  Thus says he Lord, “Behold, I send an angel before you, to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place which I have prepared. Give heed to him and listen to his voice. Do not rebel against him for my name is in him.  If you listen attentively and do all that I say, then I will be an enemy of your enemies. Exodus 23:20-23 

Pope Francis. The various expression of popular piety are a treasure of spirituality for many families. AL 318.  Tradition tells how St Joachim, Jesus’ grandfather, was feeling  estranged as he had no children. Thinking how their lives were useless, one sleepless night, while filled with worries and longing, an angel from the Lord brought him a message. “The Lord has heard you.” Pope Francis reminds us how the Lord is with us even at our darkest moments, as in the pandemic, hoping that those most alone will also receive the visit of an angel.   He suggests that angels may have the face of our grandchildren, family or close friends and how we value their hugs and visits whenever possible.  From !st World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly 2021

ECO-TIP AND PRAYER:  Everything in creation is connected and everything also needs protection. Who and what am I called to protect?  Pray for commitment to the task of protection of vulnerable creatures.