Introduction
In our age of technology, it’s not uncommon for people to claim that they’ve captured extraordinary events on camera—sometimes even saying they’ve filmed angels. While these claims often stir our curiosity and hope, they also call for discernment. The Catholic Church provides rich teachings on angels, which help us navigate our beliefs irrespective of sensational videos or stories. This article aims to reinforce your understanding of angels as presented by the Catholic Church, so you can appreciate the divine mystery without getting lost in the sea of modern claims and interpretations.
What Does the Church Say About Angels?
Creation and Nature of Angels
First off, let’s understand what the Church says about angels. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), “The existence of the spiritual, non-corporeal beings that Sacred Scripture usually calls ‘angels’ is a truth of faith” (CCC 328). In other words, their existence is not a matter of opinion but is a part of the Church’s teachings based on the Scriptures.
Angels are purely spiritual creatures, meaning they don’t have physical bodies like us. “As purely spiritual creatures angels have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal creatures” (CCC 330). Angels are powerful beings created by God to serve Him.
Roles and Missions
Angels have multiple roles, including messengers of God, guardians, and warriors against evil. One of the most famous instances in the Bible is the Annunciation, where the angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive Jesus. Scripture says, “And the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God'” (Luke 1:30).
Why Do People Believe in Angels?
A Sense of Hope and Protection
Many people find the belief in angels comforting. The idea that there are heavenly beings specifically designated to look out for us can be reassuring. This belief is supported by the Catholic doctrine of guardian angels. “From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession” (CCC 336).
Supernatural Experiences
Some people claim to have personal experiences with angels. While the Church is cautious about such claims, it does not outright deny the possibility. However, all experiences should be discerned carefully and in alignment with Church teachings.
Modern Representations and Misunderstandings
In popular culture, angels are often depicted in ways that don’t align with Catholic doctrine. For example, some stories suggest that humans become angels when they die. This is not accurate. The Church teaches that angels and humans are distinctly different creations of God. Angels are not and never were human.
Can Videos Capture Angels?
This brings us to the question, can videos or photographs capture angels? The Church has not made an official statement on this specific issue. However, given that angels are non-corporeal beings, capturing them on a camera designed for the physical world poses theological questions. Moreover, the Church insists on thorough investigation and discernment for any claimed miracles or apparitions.
Discernment: The Key to Understanding
Whenever you come across a video or story claiming to show an angel, the key is discernment. Take time to reflect and pray about what you’ve seen or heard. Consult the teachings of the Church and discuss it with knowledgeable and trusted spiritual advisors.
The Role of Faith
The existence of angels is a matter of faith. While a video might spark curiosity or wonder, it shouldn’t serve as the foundation for our belief in angels. Our belief is rooted in Scripture and the teachings of the Church.
Conclusion
In summary, while videos claiming to show angels can be intriguing, they are not the foundation of our belief in these heavenly beings. The Catholic Church offers a rich and nuanced understanding of angels, grounded in Scripture and Tradition. Through understanding what the Church teaches about angels, we can appreciate their role in the divine plan and their presence in our lives, irrespective of sensational claims or modern representations.