How do I talk to my son about angels and saints?

[akarmitage]

My son has lost his dad, uncle, and close family friend in the past year. We had told him that they were angels, watching over him now. I know the technical definition of angel doesn’t fit, but it seemed to work for an 11 yo. He went to Religious Education this week and said his teacher said they were not angels, but they were saints. I know that’s not true, either. What’s the best explanation for a child to understand that these loved ones are gone, but still with him?

 

[Reginald_Plum]

akarmitage,

I am sorry to hear of the losses you and your son have endured this year. These links should be helpful for explaining the afterlife to your son. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please contact Catholic Answers directly.

Recommended Reading:
Do human beings become angels?
Is my daughter a saint?

Heaven
Can you help a young Catholic in the midst of this crisis?
What’s on the menu at the heavenly banquet?
If the souls in purgatory are destined for heaven, why do we pray for them?
Can we pray to deceased loved ones?