# The Bible on praying for the dead
*2017-11-02*

> On the feast of All Souls Day, Bill Young discusses the biblical basis for praying for the departed and the Catholic understanding of Purgatory.

## The Purpose of Praying for the Dead

Today is November 2nd, the feast of All Souls Day. In reflecting on the Bible and the practice of praying for the dead, we look to the Book of Wisdom, which tells us, 'If before men, indeed, they be punished, yet is their hope full of immortality.' It is holy and pious to pray for the dead because those already in heaven or hell do not benefit from our prayers. This implies that not everyone immediately goes to heaven or hell after death; rather, many go to a place of purging and purification known as Purgatory.

## Scriptural Foundations

The New Testament suggests the existence of a state other than heaven or hell. For instance, we read that Jesus went to preach to the spirits of those who had disobeyed. Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 15:29, St. Paul mentions the practice of some being baptized on behalf of the dead, which implies a state where such prayers are efficacious. Furthermore, the teaching that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven 'in this age or at any age to come' suggests that other sins can be forgiven after death, necessitating a place of purification.

## The Importance of the Sacraments

As we pray for the departed, we must also care for our own souls through the sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation. Some people find it difficult to go to Confession because they feel they can speak to God directly without a priest. However, we must remember that Jesus gave the Apostles the authority to forgive sins on earth, which is then forgiven in heaven. The priest represents Jesus in the confessional. When I have experienced the peace and joy following the Act of Reconciliation, I know that feeling comes from God alone, with the priest there to support our Lord.

## Our Ultimate Goal

While we have many goals in life—material success or professional achievements—these are not the primary goals in God's eyes. The only truly important goal is to get to heaven. We may not feel 'ready' or perfect yet, as we are not yet saints, but our mission in the meantime is to try to bring everyone we encounter toward heaven. For those who have already passed and are in Purgatory, our prayers can help speed their recovery and their journey to eternal glory.

## A Rosary for the Faithful Departed

To honor this feast day, we offered the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary specifically for the souls in Purgatory. We prayed for lost friends, family members, coworkers, and all those who departed this life. Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the merits of Jesus Christ, we ask that the perpetual light shine upon them and that they may find eternal rest in peace.

*Our primary goal in life is to reach heaven, and through our prayers, we can assist the souls in Purgatory in achieving that final destination.*