Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

John in Chatham raised a thought-provoking question when he asked, "Can we name our guardian angels?" This question delves into a topic that has sparked discussions and reflections among believers.

Father Joe Ring, the pastor of Our Saviour Parish in Jacksonville, shared insights on the concept of guardian angels. He highlighted the significance of the Guardian Angel Prayer, a childhood prayer that many still recite daily. Father Ring explained that while Scripture does not explicitly state that each person is assigned a specific guardian angel, there are indications in both the Old and New Testaments that suggest the existence of these celestial beings.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church briefly mentions guardian angels, describing them as protectors and shepherds guiding believers through life. Despite the lack of a definitive stance on naming guardian angels in Church teachings, Father Ring discouraged the practice. He expressed concerns that claiming to name one's guardian angel could lead to unintended interactions with entities other than angels.

Father Ring emphasized the importance of asking for the intercession of guardian angels and recognizing the spiritual protection they provide. He pointed out that while there are three named angels in the Bible - Gabriel, Raphael, and Michael - the identity of one's guardian angel remains unknown and should not be personalized like a pet.

In conclusion, the debate over naming guardian angels continues to stir conversations within Catholic circles. While the practice of naming them is discouraged, invoking their protection through prayer and expressing gratitude for their guidance are considered pious acts.

The question posed by John in Chatham opens up a broader discussion on the role of guardian angels in believers' lives and the reverence with which their presence should be acknowledged.