Purgatory is one doctrine that gets a lot of criticism from non-Catholic Christians, and confuses Catholics too. What’s the deal with it?! Why do we need it, and where did it come from?
This excellent video from Fr. Mike Schmitz at Ascension Presents cuts through the misconceptions surrounding Purgatory. He explains the purpose of Purgatory, shares the Biblical evidence for it, and offers the reason why purification is required even if we die in a state of grace.
Fr. Schmitz answers the burning issue of “Didn’t Jesus pay the final price for our sins?” and addresses how and why we should pray for the dead.
As it turns out, Purgatory is pretty simple, but even better, it’s a gift from a loving and merciful God. As C.S Lewis said, “Our souls demand purgatory!”
What You Should Know About Purgatory | Fr. Mike Schmitz
Prayer for the Faithful Departed
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they (or the souls of the faithful departed), through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
*According to the Enchiridion of Indulgences #46 (1908) and the Raccolta #582 (1927), this prayer is graced with a partial indulgence for souls in purgatory.
Prayer for the Holy Souls in Purgatory by St. Gertrude the Great
Eternal Father, I offer You the most precious blood of thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal Church, for those in my own home, and in my family. Amen.
Inspired to head to Confession? Don’t miss our Guide!
A 7 Step Survival Guide for Returning to Confession
If you’re thinking of going to Confession, but it has been a while, this post is for you. Going to Confession is never pleasant or enjoyable, but it is always worth it.
Source: catholic-link.org/2016/03/17/a-7-step-survival-guide-for-returning-to-confession/
More Resources On Purgatory
