After the dissertation, which we have briefly conducted to the best of our ability, regarding the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, it follows that we offer a few remarks upon the subject of rational natures, and on their species and orders, or on the offices as well of holy as of malignant powers, and also on those which occupy an intermediate position between these good and evil powers, and as yet are placed in a state of struggle and trial. For we find in holy Scripture numerous names of certain orders and offices, not only of holy beings, but also of those of an opposite description, which we shall bring before us, in the first place; and the meaning of which we shall endeavour, in the second place, to the best of our ability, to ascertain. (Book I, Chapter 5, Part 1)

Do I believe in angels or devils?

Poetically, they certainly are part of my reality. They have as much influence as, say, Abraham Lincoln or Adolf Hitler. They are at least as real as these historical figures.

More practically I have personally encountered the angelic and the satanic, fortunately more of the latter than the former. But each had taken human form.

I encounter each tendency in myself.

Do I believe in the heavenly host? Do I believe in satanic armies?

I will listen to Origen.

The image is St. Michael Vanquishing Satan by Raphael.