Catholic Catechism on the Angels

Book cover: 'Catholic Catechism on the Angels'
Author(s): 
Father John A. Hardon, S.J.
Number of pages: 
28 pages
Copyright: 
2000
Publisher: 
Inter Mirifica
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
Review: 

In today's culture, angels are represented on everything from popular television programs to needlecraft projects, but they are rarely portrayed accurately. This little powerhouse of a book sets the record straight on Catholic teaching regarding our "holy helpers". Thorough but concise, it is written for upper high-school students and adults.

The book is organized into three sections that take the form of a brief essay followed by a question-and-answer catechism clarifying each point made. Father Hardon begins with a study of the angels, providing an explanation of angelic terms and definitions commonly used in reference to angels; adversaries, which are those individuals or systems which deny the doctrines about angels; and doctrinal value, which refers to the need for a believing Catholic to accept what is taught by the Church. He continues with the Catholic doctrines on the existence of angels from three different directions: ecclesiastical authority, sacred scripture, and theological reasoning. Finally, Father Hardon concludes with the proofs that angels are pure spirits from ecclesiastical authority, sacred scripture and tradition, and patristic evidence.

Perspective: 
Catholic
Additional notes: 

Imprimatur and Nihil Obstat

Reviewed by: 
First reviewed: 
12-29-04