The Poor Souls in Purgatory

The Poor Souls in Purgatory are seperated from the vision of God because they need to make satisfaction for the sins they committed during their lifetime on earth. They are suffering in fire worse than any earthly fire to expiate the temporal punishment due to their sins. The souls in purgatory are helpless and must rely on the prayers, good works, and Masses offered on their behalf by the faithful in the Church on earth to relieve their suffering. It is a spiritual work of mercy & charity for the faithful on earth to pray for the poor souls, especially through the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, which hastens their entrance into heaven. The poor souls are holy souls who will one day be perfectly purified to enter into the holy presence of God and who will not forget to pray for those who relieve their suffering. Through the worthy reception of the sacraments and penance, the faithful can shorten or avoid time in purgatory. As members of the Body of Christ, the holy souls long for the glory of heaven that will unite them forever to the Bridegroom of their souls.

A PRAYER FOR THE POOR SOULS IN PURGATORY

O gentle Heart of Jesus, ever present in the Blessed Sacrament, ever consumed with burning love for the poor captive souls in purgatory, have mercy on them. Be not severe in Your judgments, but let some drops of Your Precious Blood fall upon the flames. And, merciful Savior, send your angels to conduct them to a place of refreshment, light and peace. Amen.

It is also said that every Saturday morning, the Blessed Mother herself journeys down to Purgatory & brings souls back to heaven with her. What a wonderful thought!