In late December 2023, two fishermen spotted a truck that had crashed under a bridge near where they were fishing in Indiana. As they approached the wreckage, they discovered that the young driver was still alive, despite having been pinned in his truck for six days without food or water in freezing temperatures. The fishermen quickly called for help, and the young driver was rescued.

We often call human rescuers “guardian angels” because they remind us of the supernatural reality that each one of us has been given an angel to watch over and guard us. As the Catechism says: “From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by [the angels’] watchful care and protection. ‘Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.’” (Paragraph 336)

Ask just about anyone – and you’ll hear other stories of people experiencing an invisible but palpable presence guiding them through challenging moments in their lives. These stories are remarkably common and remind us of the ever-present help the angels give us. As Scripture says, “For he commands his angels with regard to you, to guard you wherever you go. With their hands they shall support you.” (Psalm 91:11-12)

For parents, there’s yet another beautiful aspect of this part of our faith. We live in a dangerous world, and despite our best efforts, we can’t protect our kids against everything that could hurt them or go wrong in their lives. Jesus tells us that the angels tasked with guarding children have a particular intercessory power. “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels look upon the face of my heavenly Father.” (Matthew 18:10)

There’s nothing more comforting to know that as we go through the trials and dangers of this life, we’ve got someone looking out for us. As you enjoy this month’s delicate yet sweet treat, may you soften into the knowledge that you are always under God’s watchful care!