In this episode of Father Simon Says, Fr. Richard Simon explores Hebrews 1:14 to unpack the fascinating concept of ministering angels: those heavenly helpers who are all about service. And he’s not just talking about fluttery, Hallmark-style angels playing harps. Nope, these angels are all business.

“Ministering Angels”: What’s in a Name?

The Greek word for “ministering” here is liturgikon: the root of the word liturgy. So, ministering isn’t just about being nice or helpful; it’s about duty and responsibility. Think “official work,” not “random favor.”

Fun fact: In ancient Greece, even the guy in charge of the sewers (yes, sewers) was doing liturgical work because he was serving the community. So, liturgy isn’t just holy; it’s also very practical!

How This Ties to the Mass

Fr. Simon points out that the Mass is the work of the people, but it’s not our property to do whatever we want with it. It’s a sacred responsibility.

The priest? He stands in for Christ during the Mass. The congregation? That’s us; we represent the Bride of Christ, the Church. 💒

And the deacons? Here’s where it gets remarkable: Deacons stand in for the angels! Their role isn’t just to fetch the wine or set the table. They are liturgical messengers, reflecting the role of the angels. In Byzantine liturgies, the deacon’s stole is even arranged to look like angel wings.

Angels = Liturgical Workers

Angels aren’t just floating around playing a cosmic game of tag. They’re ministering spirits: on a mission of service, kind of like supernatural civil servants. They are sent to assist and serve, much like how we’re all called to serve in our own vocations.

And Hebrews 1:14? It reminds us that these heavenly beings are specifically tasked with helping those who are to inherit salvation (that’s us!).

The Takeaway

Fr. Simon gets really poetic about the beauty of this whole concept. The angels, the Mass, the deacons, the congregation: it’s all a seamless, holy choreography of service. We’re talking heavenly teamwork here, and every role matters. 🕊️

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