THE NINE CHOIRS OF ANGELS

A MESSAGE FOR MICHAELMAS DAY

Angels are organized into three hierarchies and nine orders (also called choirs) so that angels can be classified and ranked. Those three hierarchies contain three choirs. The ones that are revealed to us are broken down as follows: The First hierarchy contains Seraphim, Cherubim and Thrones. The Second hierarchy contains Dominions, Virtues and Powers. The Third and Final hierarchy contains Principalities, Archangels and Angels. Here is the breakdown of each order:

SERAPHIM. These are the highest choir of angels, serving as guardians or attendants before God’s throne. The only Bible verse where they are referenced is in Isaiah 6:1-7. They praise God, calling, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God of Hosts.” What’s interesting to note about Seraphim is that they have six wings. Two of their wings cover their faces, two cover their feet and the other two are for flying.

CHERUBIM. Following Seraphim in the angelic hierarchy comes Cherubim. They are the second highest in the nine choirs of angels. These angels are manlike in appearance, double-winged and guardians of God’s glory. In the New Testament, they are often considered to be celestial attendants referenced in the Book of the Apocalypse, Chapters 4-6.

THRONES. The Thrones are a class of angels mentioned by the Apostle Paul in Colossians 1:16. This verse says, "For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him." The Thrones are the angels of humility, peace and submission. If the lower Choir of Angels need to access God, they would have to do that through the Thrones.

DOMINIONS. This group of angels are said to keep the world in proper order. They are known for delivering God’s justice in unjust situations, showing mercy toward human beings and helping angels in lower ranks stay organized and perform their work efficiently. They also are recognized for expressing unconditional love at the same time they express God's justice. 

VIRTUES. Virtues are known for their control of the elements. Some even refer to them as “the shining ones.” In addition to being the Spirits of Motion, they also assist in governing nature. They also assist with miracles. They are also known for their work encouraging humans to strengthen their faith in God.

POWERS.  The Powers are considered Warrior Angels as they defend against evil, defending not only the cosmos but also humanity. They are also called the Powers because they have power over the devil, in order to restrain the power of the demons. They also help people who are wrestling with passions ad vices to cast out any evil promoted by the enemy.

PRINCIPALITIES.  The Principalities have command over the lower angels. They also direct the fulfillment of divine orders. They are also known as Princedoms or Rules as they directly watch over large groups and institutions, including nations and the Church. They also ensure the fulfillment of the divine Will. While these angels are still wise and powerful, they are furthest from God in the angelic hierarchy so they are better able to communicate with man in ways we can understand.      

ARCHANGELS are called the great heralds of the Gospel because they are sent by God to deliver important messages to mankind. They are the ones that communicate and interact with us. The three ones to be named in Holy Scripture are Michael who is known as the protector of the Church, guarding her from evil, Gabriel who announced the Incarnation to the Blessed Mother, and Raphael, who guided Tobias on his journey in the Old Testament. 

The ANGELS are closest to the material world and human beings. They also delivers prayers to God and other messages to people on earth. One of the greatest characteristics about the angels is that they are most caring and social to assist those who ask for help. According to Scripture, angels have various responsibilities and roles in God’s Kingdom. We are ultimately encouraged by the knowledge that God’s angels are at work. There are also  circumstances where angels may even visit us. God, who is responsible for creating the angels has also promised us His presence in the face of life's storms.