You should be aware that the word "angel" denotes a function rather than a nature. Those holy spirits of heaven have indeed always been spirits. They can only be called angels when they deliver some message. Moreover, those who deliver messages of lesser importance are called angels; and those who proclaim messages of supreme importance are called archangels. Raphael means God's remedy, Michael is sent whenever some act of wondrous power must be performed, and Gabriel is called God's strength because he was sent to Mary.
- St. Leo the Great, Pope
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