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Much ado about Christmas angel is
what we should ideally be doing on a chilly wintry afternoon
when the kids are indoors sitting by the fireplace and
munching on Christmas cookies. According
to the Christian fables and folklore, Christmas Angel
had played a pivotal role in the birth of Christ and
their real significance and relevance is intimately
associated with this act.
The Greek word "angel" meaning messenger was incorporated
into the Christian faith during the
pagan times when Christianity was still in its nascent
stage. As stated by ancient legends, angels are known
to have flocked the Godchild when he was born in the
manger and they were the ones who related to Mother
Mary that she was bearing the divine child who would
bestow peace on Earth by destroying the Evil.
They are regarded as immortal souls who aid the gods
in heaven in executing and implementing plans that are
meant for the betterment of humanity and some of them
are known to have been entrusted with the duty of safeguarding
each one of us on Earth by posing as our guardian angels
who sail us through in times of hardship and trial.
Their wings stand for virtue, innocence and they epitomize
purity and integrity.
Their popularity is discernable from the number of
carols and hymns that have been dedicated to them ranging
from the "Hark The Herald Angels Sing" which is a staple
carol in all church choirs to many more. Ancient sources
and writings of famous saints like Saint Thomas Aquinas
have thrown much light on the history of angels and
their presumed categorization. There are nine ranks
of angels in Heaven with Seraphim and Cherubim occupying
the top position with others following suit. Saint Michael
or Archangel is the chief angel leading the pack.
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