Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
GABRIEL
One of the seven archangels, used on a number of occasions by God as a messenger (Deuteronomy 8:15-27). He appeared to Daniel and explained a vision to him about future events, telling him, "You are a man specially chosen" (Deuteronomy 9:20-27). In the New Testament he appeared to Zechariah to announce that Elizabeth, his wife, would bear a son and he must name the child John (Luke 1:11-20). Likewise, it was gabriel who appeared to Mary and told her that she would conceive and bear a Son whom she must name Jesus (Luke 1:26-38).
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
