Be An Angel Day — observed annually on August 22 — encourages us to play the role of an angel for someone else. Whether it is a grand gesture (sponsoring someone’s education) or a minor one (saying ‘thank you’ when someone helps you), a good gesture goes a long way towards spreading goodwill in the world. By helping someone in need (or remembering someone who helped you), you honour the substance of this holiday.
The background of Be An Angel Day
According to some, angelic-type entities have been acknowledged and immortalised since the dawn of civilization. Angels are supernatural beings believed by many religions to serve as guardians and messengers, among other functions.
The word ‘angel’ is derived from the Latin word ‘angelus,’ which means’messenger of God.’ In ancient legends, these entities have appeared as humanoid creatures, monstrous creatures, and even fire wheels.
Angels began to be depicted in art, sculpture, literature, and the Bible, and by the fourth century, their wings began to be depicted as well. European artists were the first to depict such creatures in paintings, and by the 12th century, this depiction of angels had gained immense popularity. Before this period, however, archaeologists have discovered altars dedicated to winged beings believed to be angels. Michelangelo, Bernini, and Shakespeare all prominently featured angels in their respective works.
During World War I, when British and French troops were wounded in battle against the Germans, both parties reported seeing angels. The French soldiers claimed to have seen Michael the Archangel, while the British believed it was Saint George. A portion of the population considers both deities to be identical. This enigmatic angel was subsequently dubbed the Angel of Mons, after the location where both armies reported seeing him. Angels are not limited to spirituality in the modern world; their presence is felt everywhere.
Reverend Jayne Howard Feldman also perceives angels’ presence. In fact, according to her website, angels inspired her to establish this day. This day was created almost 27 years ago to encourage people to perform small acts of compassion, and its popularity has increased exponentially over time.
5 AMUSING FACTS ABOUT ANGELS IN REAL LIFE
A five-year-old once tied the shoelaces of a boy she had just encountered while they were both playing in the IKEA play area.
After their bomb-sniffing black labrador Cena was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer, thousands of her ‘coworkers’ gathered to bid her farewell.
Oprah Winfrey is widely regarded as one of the most charitable personalities, having donated millions of dollars and establishing her own charitable organisation.
The Indian Amtes family established a sanctuary for wild animals in their front yard decades ago; they safeguard both local tribespeople and wildlife.
As his replacement, Jim, a Michigan resident, recommended a young man who was struggling financially for a job; the young man landed the position, and it transformed his life.
BE AN ANGEL DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | August 22 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | August 22 | Thursday |
| 2025 | August 22 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 22 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 22 | Sunday |
