How should I respond to deceased persons being referred to as Angels?

[debjmj]

I see deceased persons referred to as Angels quite often; particularly young children. I’ve recently posted the following on Facebook, but can you offer me any other suggestions [or corrections/clarifications to my FB post]? Thank you!

In Christ,
Debbi Gambert

Facebook post: ~ ~ ~ Angels are pure spirits, and those angels in Heaven are also known as Saints. Fallen angels are not saints, of course. People in Heaven are Saints, and now await the resurrection of the body [Jesus’ mother, Mary was assumed (by God) into Heaven body and soul; Jesus, as God, ascended by His own power]. Human persons are not now, nor ever will be Angels. It is just poetic / artistic license to refer to them as such; take Clarence in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” for instance. Lord, make me a Saint! ~ ~ ~

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

I think you did a good job in your post. The only thing to keep in mind is that sometimes people are in such deep grief that its not the appropriate “teaching moment” to correct them. However, in ordinary course of conversation and interaction correcting someone the way you would about any other factual issue would seem to be the most prudent course to take. We can be simple and polite yet still make our point.
If the person insists on their statement you can politely ask them on what basis they think humans become angels since its not part of any Christian theology.