# Prayer to Our Guardian Angel
*2008-09-05*

> Bill Young reflects on the role of guardian angels, especially in September, and leads listeners in a heartfelt prayer to these heavenly friends.

## Introduction to Guardian Angels

Good afternoon, this is Bill Young. September is dedicated to all angels, so today we begin with a short introduction from my prayer book. Our guardian angel is a friend we cannot see, yet whose responsibility for our life exceeds our imagination. He presents our acts of adoration, petitions, and holy desires to God, watches attentively over us, and, as an envoy from heaven, inspires us to do good according to God's will. He constantly contemplates the face of God and never leaves the throne of the Lord, even while serving men and women. The fire of love within him and his obedience make his service inspirational. Love renders our angels diligent; their obedience to God makes them faithful, and their mission is to lead us to the blessed homeland of heaven after this life.

## How Angels Guide and Protect Us

We should honor our angels, especially when we feel alone, because they watch over us. By living simply, dignified, and tenderly, we respect their presence and fulfill our duties to the King. Even when we ignore the suggestions of others, we must heed the inspiration of our guardian angel. Each good thought we neglect is a slight to him. Jesus taught that angels hear our prayers, even when we do not understand them fully. The angel speaks to the intimacy of our hearts, sometimes through other people or what we read, his voice always inspired by the Holy Spirit.

When we are sad, we can invoke him to bring a ray of light—a spark of pure joy that angels bear. True friends are treasures of the Holy Spirit; unlike many human relationships that betray, our guardian angel is a true friend who shares in our joys and sorrows and protects us from bodily harm. He illuminates our path, showing dangers and helping us avoid them with the aid of our will.

## Living in Harmony with Our Angel

Let us not forget the one who remains at our side. Trust him with our difficulties and important duties, and thank him for the service he freely renders. Angels were victorious in the battle before creation and have remained faithful to God, retaining the humility that distinguishes them from evil spirits. May we imitate their faithfulness and meekness, and if ever called to defend the truth, may the cry of the good angels be our cry.

We should teach our children to pray to their guardian angels and ask the Church, the Pope, families, and institutions to invoke their protection. Though the devil is strong, the strength of angels is far greater because they fight in the name of God's heavenly host.

Our guardian angel is close to us day and night. Offer him affection and thanksgiving frequently. Attend Mass, receive Holy Communion, and do a good deed in his honor. Remember the feast days of the holy angels throughout the year, for they rejoice in us and bring the blessings of the Lord and the Blessed Virgin.

Even small miracles—finding a parking spot during rush hour after a quick prayer—remind us not to despise minor episodes of grace. Integrate the devotion of St. Francis, who honored his guardian angel at every moment, and always reserve a place for the angel at your side.

## Prayer to the Guardian Angel

Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here, be with me day and night, to light my way, to guide and protect me. Amen.

Angel sent by God to guide me, be my light and walk beside me, be my guardian and protect me on the path of life. Amen.

May God bless you all.

*Trust in your guardian angel’s constant, loving presence and let his guidance lead you toward heaven.*