# Prayers to the guardian angel
*2015-09-01*

> Bill Young reflects on the feast of St. Giles and introduces September as the month dedicated to the angels, focusing on the role of our guardian angels.

## The example of St. Giles

Today is the first of September, the feast day of St. Giles. St. Giles was a great saint who lived in the 8th century and was known for living in the forest by himself. He had a dear friend in the form of a deer, which he loved, talked to, and played with. I can relate to that, as I have my cockatiel that I feed and talk to. Whether it is cats, dogs, or birds, we all have our little animal friends.

## The month of angels

September is also the month dedicated to the angels. We begin by focusing on our guardian angel, who is always with us as a friend, even if we may not always realize it.

## Prayers to our guardian angel

Let us pray: Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God's love commits me here. Ever this day or night, be at my side, to light, guard, rule, and guide. Amen.

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

## Gratitude for our pets

As you go about your day, take a moment to thank God for your pets—whether they are dogs, cats, birds, or fish—and pray for them too. As Pope Francis has suggested, even pets go to heaven.

*Take time this month to acknowledge the constant presence of your guardian angel and the blessing of the animals in your life.*