Becoming independent is an important goal to which students should aspire. At an early age, children are encouraged to do things for themselves - eat, dress, play – on their own. When they reach school age, they are guided by their parents and teachers to learn new skills, but they also begin to take responsibility for their own motivation and growth. By high school, college, and entering the work force, we laud those who can problem-solve, think critically, set personal goals, and are self-sufficient. While it is important to “figure it out,” there are times when it is acceptable and even necessary to ask for help. Many of us falsely believe that seeking help is a sign of weakness, and we embrace the mantra of “fake it ‘til you make it.” However, as with everything, we need to strike a balance.
Yesterday, we celebrated the Feast Day of our patron, Saint Michael the Archangel, along with the three other Archangels - Gabriel, Raphael, and Uriel. In Revelation, we hear St. Michael cast Satan out of heaven. He continues to fight evil in our world for those who invoke his name. Praying his prayer at the end of Mass was established in the 19th Century by Pope Leo XIII and continued until 1964 during the Second Vatican Council. This devotion is again growing in popularity as a means of thwarting Satan and his legion who are working to undermine our faith. As a school community, we pray the prayer to St. Michael every day at Morning Assembly, and our parish prays this prayer at the end of every Mass. He is truly God’s great warrior.
On Tuesday, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Guardian Angels. Each of us is assigned an angel to watch over us and protect us, even when we do not ask for their help. Teaching children about their guardian angel, and reciting the Guardian Angel prayer is a practice children should follow every day. There are so many times in my life when I know my Guardian Angel has intervened, and I say “thank you” each time. It’s not just the Archangels and Guardian Angels who protect us. In the sixth century, Pope Dionysius identified a Catholic angelic hierarchy and grouped them into three orders: Highest Orders: Seraphim, Cherabim, Thrones; Middle Orders: Dominians, Virtues, Powers; and Lowest Orders: Principalities, Archangels, Angels. Their company cannot be seen, but they are most certainly impacting us every day. This song describes the presence of Angels Among Us.
As we work to achieve our goals, solve our problems, and fight for good causes, it is perfectly fine to ask for help along the way. It does not diminish our abilities and it will likely aid in our success. Of course, God encourages us to turn to Him in prayer daily, and wants us to ask Him for help. Together with all of the angels and saints, we have a plethora of advocates who are cheering us on.
In Mission Kathy
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