Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

The term "saint" is derived from the Latin word "sanctus," which means "holy" or "set apart." This etymology explains why both human saints and archangels are referred to as "saints." The use of the title does not imply that archangels, such as St. Michael, are human. Instead, it acknowledges their holiness and dedication to God.

Father Daren Zehnle, J.C.L., K.C.H.S., who serves as chaplain and director of campus ministry at Quincy University, also an adjunct assistant professor there, elaborates on this understanding. He notes that saints are considered holy because they reside in heaven.

This explanation addresses a common misconception regarding the nature of sainthood and its application to non-human entities like archangels.