Three Facts About Purgatory that Most People Do Not Know
Purgatory, the state of purification after death for those destined for Heaven, is a central tenet of Catholic belief. While the concept is familiar to many Catholics, there are some lesser-known aspects of Purgatory that are worth exploring.
- Purgatory as a Place of Love and Purification: While Purgatory is a place of purification, it is also a place of love and hope. The souls in Purgatory are loved by God and are being prepared for eternal life. Our prayers and sacrifices can help alleviate their suffering and hasten their purification.
- The Role of the Saints: The saints in Heaven can intercede for the souls in Purgatory. By praying to the saints, we can enlist their powerful prayers to help our loved ones.
- The Power of the Eucharist: The Eucharist is a powerful source of grace and can help to alleviate the suffering of souls in Purgatory. By offering Masses for the souls in Purgatory, we can help them to attain the beatific vision.
Understanding these aspects of Purgatory can deepen our faith and inspire us to pray for the souls of the departed. By offering prayers and sacrifices, we can help alleviate their suffering and hasten their entry into Heaven.
ABOUT Purgatory, the Catechism of the Catholic Church states,
“All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven. The Church gives the name Purgatory to this final purification of the elect, which is entirely different from the punishment of the damned.” (CCC 1030-1)
Purification after death from sin (and the consequences of sin) is mentioned in the New Testament in 1 Cor. 3:11-15, Matt. 5:25-26, and Matt. 12:31-32.
