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Ornate painterly depiction of the Catholic spiritual hierarchy in heaven with God, Jesus, Mary, angels, and saints amidst golden clouds.

Ornate painterly depiction of the Catholic spiritual hierarchy in heaven with God, Jesus, Mary, angels, and saints amidst golden clouds.

Catholic Spiritual Hierarchy (Top → Bottom, Expanded) God the Holy Trinity Father: Source of all creation and life. Son (Jesus Christ): Redeemer of humanity, King of Heaven. Holy Spirit: Sanctifier and giver of grace. The Blessed Virgin Mary Role: Queen of Heaven, Mother of God, highest of all created beings. Significance: Placed above angels because she bore God incarnate and was assumed body and soul into heaven. The Nine Choirs of Angels First Hierarchy (Closest to God – Contemplative): Seraphim: Burn with love for God; sing perpetual praise. Cherubim: Guardians of divine wisdom and light. Thrones: Symbols of God’s justice and authority; carry out divine judgment. Second Hierarchy (Governing – Cosmic Order): Dominions: Guide lower angels and oversee the cosmos. Virtues: Channels of divine grace; responsible for miracles. Powers: Defenders of cosmic order; engage in spiritual warfare. Third Hierarchy (Ministering – Humanity’s Guardians): Principalities: Protect nations, institutions, and leaders. Archangels: Chief messengers; include Michael, Gabriel, Raphael. Angels: Guardian angels and messengers for individuals. The Saints in Heaven (Glorified Humanity) Major Groups: Apostles: 12 chosen by Christ; foundational teachers of the Church. Martyrs: Witnesses of faith who gave their lives for Christ. Prophets: Messengers of God from the Old and New Testament. Doctors of the Church: Saints recognized for theological insight and teaching. Other Saints: Monks, Virgins, Holy See more