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