The earliest reference to a tier of heavenly beings known as archangels is described in the Book of Enoch; today, however, Enoch is considered non-canonical in most Christian churches. In the Catholic Church, the most commonly recognized archangels are Gabriel, Michael, and Raphael. These high-ranking angels typically serve as envoys, bringing God's message to Earth.

Archangels are pure beings of Divine light who personify God's grace, majesty, and love. Michael is the Prince of the Archangels and of the Angelic Hosts, the Defender of the Faith, the Angel of Deliverance, and the leader of Heaven's Army. Gabriel is the messenger of God; it was Gabriel who told Mary she would conceive from the Holy Ghost and the baby would be the son of God. Archangel Raphael is the anointer, bringing God's healing light from Heaven to us on Earth. Archangels bring us peace, compassion, and hope, guiding us through life's challenges and opening the doorway to Heaven.