Finding Angelus Moments: Philip Amerson Reflects on Life’s “Angels Singing”

In this heartfelt episode of the To Be snd Do podcast, host Philip Amerson shares deeply personal stories about what he calls “Angelus moments”—those remarkable instances in life when one feels so transported, loved, or at peace that it’s almost as if the angels themselves are singing. Drawing from both spiritual tradition and childhood memories, Philip invites listeners to reflect on the places and moments in their own lives that call them to prayer, compassion, and connection. Let’s explore three key takeaways from this poignant conversation.

1. The Angelus as a Call to Ongoing Prayer and Presence

Philip begins by describing the Angelus tradition within Catholic monastic communities, where bells ring out morning, noon, and night, serving as an enduring call to prayer. He reminds us that this ritual isn’t just about a specific moment—it’s part of a continuous chorus of prayer happening all day and night, uniting people in spiritual solidarity across the world. This theme sets the tone for the episode: Angelus moments are ongoing opportunities for mindfulness, presence, and gratitude. As Philip shares, “There has been prayer going on all through the night around the world in monasteries and in other places, people are praying.” The beauty of the tradition lies not just in the ritual itself but in the universal sense of caring and spiritual connection it fosters.

2. Music as a Source of Spiritual Reassurance and Solidarity

Philip references singer-songwriter Carrie Newcomer’s visit to the Gethsemane Monastery and her song “Singing in the Dark.” The refrain, “someone somewhere praying through the darkness,” echoes the message of the Angelus bells—no matter how dark things may seem, we are never truly alone. Music in this context becomes both a comfort and a reminder that there’s a network of quiet support enveloping us all. Through Newcomer’s lyrics, Philip highlights the power of artistry to put words (and melody) to our deepest spiritual longings, serving as a gentle reassurance during difficult times.

3. Compassion in Action: The Angelus of Childhood Memory

Perhaps the most moving portion of the episode is when Phil recounts his childhood experience of hearing his father respond with compassion to distressed veterans outside their home in the middle of the night. Despite being verbally abused and threatened, his father would get up, put on his robe and slippers, and gently drive the men back to their homes, demonstrating unwavering empathy and care. “Those keys were for me, the Angelus, the angel singing,” Philip reflects, seeing in his father’s actions a living embodiment of the call to unconditional love—even toward those who are angry, fearful, or hurt. It’s a striking illustration that our personal “Angelus moments” may not always be accompanied by literal bells, but by acts of kindness within our everyday lives.

Final Thoughts

Philip Amerson’s episode encourages listeners to pause and consider: Where are the Angelus moments in your own life? Whether it’s the ringing of bells, the lines of a song, or the loving care of someone close, these moments invite us to cultivate compassion, presence, and prayer. In sharing his stories, Philip reminds us that the experience of “angels singing” is accessible to all—and often found in the quiet, gentle acts of everyday humanity.