The commemoration of the faithful departed in purgatory began in monasteries in the sixth century and was gradually adopted by the whole Church. The Catholic doctrine of purgatory holds that there is a state of purification for the faithful before entering heaven. This is often described as purging, or cleansing, by fire, which many theologians propose is an existential state rather than a physical place. Prayers, almsgiving, indulgences, penances, and Masses offered by the living can assist those in this state through the sharing of holy things in the Communion of Saints (cf. Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1030-1032).
“Let us help and commemorate them. If Job’s sons were purified by their father’s sacrifice, why would we doubt that our offerings for the dead bring them some consolation?” (Saint John Chrysostom). Do we remember our predecessors in recovery and recommend them in our prayers?
“The work of each will come to light, for the Day will disclose it. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire [itself] will test the quality of each one’s work…if someone’s work is burned up, that one will suffer loss; the person will be saved, but only as through fire” (1 Corinthians 3:13,15).
Reflection by Brad Farmer