Angels and Demons: What do Scripture and Tradition Say about Them?

Fr. Michael Patella, OSB

Movies and the Internet show no shortage of information on angels and demons. Bookstores have whole racks devoted to the topic. While much of what we see and read keeps us entertained, the media’s presentation of the spiritual and diabolical worlds is all too often unconnected to the Christian message. In this presentation and in light of Christ’s absolute victory over sin and death, Fr. Michael Patella will outline the Christian understanding of the devil, angels, demons, ghosts, and spirits in Scripture and Tradition. He will also discuss the inherent problems and dangers that arise today with the undue attention many give to the occult.

Professor of New Testament at Saint John’s University and its School of Theology and Seminary in Collegeville, Fr. Michael Patella served as the chair of the Committee on Illumination and Text for The Saint John’s Bible. He has written in the area of Luke-Acts, Paul, Mark, and angels and demons. His work, Word and Image: The Hermeneutics of The Saint John’s Bible (Liturgical Press, 2013), addresses the theology, art, and interpretation of The Saint John’s Bible. He is currently writing on the Gospel of Luke for the Jerome Biblical Commentary, Fully Revised Edition. Fr. Michael is a member of the Catholic Biblical Association and the Society of Biblical Literature.

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Dates & Times

Thursday, October 22, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 

Friday, November 20, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 

Friday, February 5, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (MST) Scottsdale, AZ 

Friday, March 19, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. (EST) Naples, FL 

Friday, April 30, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Theology Day is a chance for people in our communities who are seeking a deeper understanding of their faith and its place in their everyday lives to learn from and interact with the theologians of Saint John's School of Theology and Seminary. It offers a chance for these scholars to gain insights and grow in their faith, as well.

There is no fee for Theology Day, but registration is required.  Free-will offerings and gifts to support the mission of the School of Theology and Seminary are gratefully accepted.

For more information, contact our Development Office at 320-363-3560 or [email protected].