Sacred Scripture reveals that the mystery of the Nativity unfolds under the constant presence and guidance of the Holy Angels. In fact, there are eight distinct angelic appearances surrounding the birth and early life of Our Lord. Through them, God instructs, reassures, warns, and protects the Holy Family.

The first two appearances are by the Archangel Gabriel. He appears to Zechariah, announcing the birth of John the Baptist to his elderly wife, Elizabeth, and telling him that this child will prepare the way for the Messiah. Gabriel then appears to a young maiden, the Virgin Mary, announcing that she will conceive by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Child to be born will be the Son of God, and His name is to be Jesus.

Next, “an angel of the Lord,” whose name is not revealed, appears to Joseph in a dream. He confirms Mary’s virginal conception and instructs Joseph to take Mary as his wife. Joseph is commanded to name the Child Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.

Then a multitude of angels appears to the shepherds in the fields, proclaiming the Good News of the Incarnation: “Glory to God in the highest.” They announce, “For today in the city of David a Savior has been born for you, who is Messiah and Lord” (Lk 2:11). The angels send the shepherds to find the newborn King, lying in a manger.

Once again, an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, warning him of the imminent danger posed by Herod. The Holy Family is instructed to flee into Egypt. After Herod’s death, the angel appears again, telling Joseph that it is safe to return, and finally directs them to settle in Nazareth.

Throughout these events, the angels instruct, guide, and protect the Holy Family. They are God’s messengers and His ministers, assisting His people according to His divine will.

Like the Holy Family, we too should foster a deep devotion to the Holy Angels, that they may guide us, protect us, and assist us in this life, and one day welcome us into the life to come.