Praying for the Souls

It is our bible-based Catholic tradition dating back to the 2nd century to pray for the souls who “had slept in the Lord” (expression of St. Paul : 2 Tim 1:16-18) and who are in a certain “state between earth and heaven” (called “purgatory” where purgation or cleansing is taking place (1 Cor 3:15).

Our prayers, Scriptures say, can hasten the cleansing process. The most important and effective of these is the Holy Mass. Then there are the “plenary” and “partial indulgences”, and any prayer by individuals accompanied by self-sacrifice.

Tradition says these prayers can be said any day from November 1 to 8 in any church and chapel. It mentions the Our Father, the Creed and a prayer for the intention of the Pope (Nov 1 & 2, Ordo 2018). Next week we will explain the teaching on Indulgences.

It is also a traditional belief that the souls respond with blessing or material gifts in gratitude to persons saying these prayers.