**VATICAN CITY –** A scene of unprecedented chaos and spiritual upheaval unfolded within Vatican City this morning as what authorities are describing as a “vast, shimmering army of angels” materialized and began systematically dismantling key structures. Initial reports suggest the angelic force, led by the spectral figure of Gabriel, is focused on removing what they deem to be “corrupt elements” from the Church and its historical records.

The event began at approximately 8:17 AM local time. Witnesses describe a sudden darkening of the sky followed by a wave of intense, ethereal light. Within moments, thousands of angelic beings, depicted as radiant, winged figures, appeared within the city walls. They moved with a chilling, purposeful efficiency, targeting the Vatican Archives, the Sistine Chapel, and the Papal Palace. Security forces, primarily comprised of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, were quickly overwhelmed. While the guards demonstrated considerable bravery, their conventional weaponry proved largely ineffective against the angelic entities.

“It wasn’t like anything I’ve ever seen,” stated Father Michael Rossi, a long-serving priest at St. Peter’s Basilica, visibly shaken. “They didn’t attack with force, not in the traditional sense. They simply… removed. Documents vanished, paintings were lifted from the walls, entire sections of the archives dissolved into shimmering dust. It was as if they were correcting a fundamental imbalance.”

The immediate consequence is a state of emergency declared by Pope Benedict XVI, who has reportedly retreated to a secure location within the Vatican. Church officials are struggling to understand the motivation behind this extraordinary intervention. Initial theological interpretations range from divine judgment to a desperate attempt by the angels to cleanse the Church of historical sins.

Adding to the confusion, several prominent figures within the Church have expressed a surprising acceptance of the angelic actions. Cardinal Angelo Borromeo, a respected historian, was overheard saying, “Perhaps this is the reckoning we have long deserved. To witness the erasure of our past, however painful, may be a necessary step towards a more righteous future.”

The situation remains fluid, and international observers are closely monitoring developments. Governments worldwide are urging restraint and caution, while theologians grapple with the profound implications of this event. The long-term impact on the Catholic Church and the global perception of faith remain to be seen.