Smithsonian Channel - Decoding Christianity (2008) Part 3 Angels

In each episode, the presenter, Christy Kenneally begins by posing a key question that is fundamental to our understanding of Christianity. He then sets out to find the answer to this question, investigating and decoding the signs, symbols, iconography, myths and miracles of Christianity. He seeks out the sources that hold the key to understanding our initial question and thus comes closer to decoding Christianity itself. Over six episodes, the presenter's quest takes him to far-flung corners of the earth: from the primitive frescos in the catacombs of Rome, to the massive, colourful pilgrimage at Kulubi in Ethiopia, to the extraordinary Hill of Crosses in Lithuania, we are taken on a journey into Christianity in all its fascinating and colourful manifestations.

Part 3: Angels

More than three-quarters of North Americans believe in angels. But what are angels, and where do they come from? In this episode of Decoding Christianity, host Christy Kenneally considers the many ways in which artists have portrayed angels over the centuries. He ventures into the catacombs of Rome to find one of the earliest depictions of a Christian angel, learns how angels got their wings, and ponders the dark side of angels. Finally, he takes a look at the present-day angel industry, traveling to Reno, Nevada to meet a woman who claims to be a channel for the Archangel Michael.