Yesterday, we came together to celebrate the Saints, those remarkable individuals who have passed on and now bask in the glory of God’s presence. In our communion with the Saints, we seek their intercession through prayer. The assistance of the Saints, through their prayers, is invaluable. If earthly help has its place in our lives, the aid of the Saints is even more essential.
Today, we gather to commemorate and offer prayers for the faithful departed who have not yet reached the gates of heaven. It’s a celebration, for our prayers extend to those who retain hope but require further purification.
Why Do We Pray for the Deceased?
Praying for the departed is a spiritual work of mercy. By interceding for the departed, we remain in communion with the entire body of Christ—the triumphant church, the suffering church, and the church militant. It is within our very nature to be in communion, and any form of isolation disorients us and inflicts suffering as it severs the core of our identity. We pray for the deceased because they depend on our prayers until they attain the eternal bliss of God’s presence. Our prayers can be essential to facilitate their transition into eternity with God.
Another reason for our prayers for the deceased is that, in doing so, we prepare ourselves for our eventual passing. Eventually, each of us will require prayers, especially after death. A day dedicated to praying for All Souls enables us to contemplate the brevity of life on earth and our ultimate purpose.
The Scriptures assure us that “no torment shall touch them”(Wisdom 3:1). Then, why do they need our prayers? The purification process, often called purgation, is not a torment. While it may involve moments of pain, discomfort, and self-examination, it is not a punishment; it is a blessing. A loving parent corrects their child for the child’s benefit. Similarly, this cleansing process enables those who did not depart in a state of Grace to attain eternal life and partake in its joy.
In conclusion, death is an inevitable part of the human experience. Coping with the separation from loved ones due to death can be profoundly challenging. While we find solace in believing that our departed loved ones are in a better place, the longing and the reality of their status may not always align. It is more meaningful and helpful to pray for them rather than ponder their exact whereabouts. May all the souls of the departed through the Mercy of God rest in Peace, Amen!
