The Seraphim are the highest choir of angels, dwelling nearest to the throne of God and burning with perfect love for Him. Their name is commonly understood to mean “the burning ones,” reflecting their intense holiness, devotion, and ceaseless worship of the Lord. The Seraphim continually glorify God, proclaiming His majesty and holiness before all creation.
In Sacred Scripture, the Prophet Isaiah received a vision of the Seraphim surrounding the heavenly throne, crying out, “Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God of hosts.” During this vision, one of the Seraphim touched Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal from the altar, purifying him and preparing him for his prophetic mission. This act revealed the Seraphim’s role as servants of God’s holiness and instruments of purification.
Throughout Christian tradition, the Seraphim symbolize perfect love of God, heavenly worship, and the purification of souls. They inspire the faithful to seek holiness and to direct their hearts entirely toward the glory of God.
Isaiah 6:1–7
The Seraphim surround God’s throne and purify Isaiah with a burning coal.
Isaiah 6:3
The Seraphim proclaim: “Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God of hosts.”
Apocalypse 4:6–8
Heavenly beings continually worship God before His throne.
Catechism of the Catholic Church (329–336)
The Church teaches on the existence and ministry of the holy angels.
Patron of:
Heavenly Worship, Purity, Adoration of God
Illustration by: Colton Rompala