In our Catholic Liturgical year we dedicate the month of November to the Holy Souls in Purgatory. Often we begin the month in earnest with both All Saints Day and All Souls Day. But even with the best of intentions, by mid November we lapse into planning the menu for Thanksgiving. And often, by the end of the month we are starting to become totally immersed in Christmas “prep”.

Regardless of our focus, these Holy Souls….these Poor Souls…remain detained in Purgatory. And these souls, although saved from eternal damnation, are dependent upon our prayers and sacrifices. They can no longer gain merit through their own efforts. We have no idea how long they are detained. Even those who have died decades ago may still benefit from our prayers.

Therefore, when we are planning works of charity for the unfortunate this Advent, let us not forget these souls. When we grieve the loss of loved ones and miss their presence in Christmas gatherings and family traditions, let us not forget their need. When we find regrets creeping in of things we should have done for these dear ones while living…let us focus instead on how to assist them now. They are gone from our sight, but are in dire need of our prayers, deeds and sacrifices. We should remember them in our December Christmas prep just as much as we do in November.

How can we incorporate our love for the Poor Souls within the context of Advent? First, we can remember them by the greatest form of prayer on earth: the Mass. By requesting and offering Masses for the repose of their souls we given them the greatest “gift” ever possible. We can also attend Masses offered for complete strangers. And we can make a personal commitment to privately offer up our Masses and Communions for all the Holy Souls.

Another option is offering indulgences gained by our prayers and devotions. Many indulgences can be gained throughout the calendar year, including during Advent. What a great gift to give our beloved dead as we miss their presence around the Christmas tree or at the family holiday feast.

Books by author Susan Tassone make incredible gifts for the grieving (or oneself). They provide valuable explanation on purgatory, include perspectives by the saints and offer a number of beautiful prayers to be used year around.

Offering up any Advent season stress, frustration, or impatience can be of benefit to the Poor Souls. It’s too easy to get caught in the trappings of the commercialism of the holiday season. Instead of falling into the net of turmoil, offer up all the negative effects of ‘busyness’. Not only does this make you a nicer person to be around for the living, you can simultaneously help the dead.

When donating alms during the Advent season consider doing so in the behalf of the Poor Souls. Many charitable organizations help provide food, clothing and gifts for the homeless, unemployed, poor, elderly and homebound. By offering these works of charity for the merit of the Poor Souls we can benefit both the living and the dead.

These are just a few ideas for the Advent season. Author Susan Tassone also wrote an article for Catholic Digest in 2018 with many more ideas. You can find it online at:

http://www.catholicdigest.com/faith/advent/the-perfect-christmas-gift

As we hang lights, arrange Advent candles, decorate trees, write cards and bake cookies let us remember to include the Holy Souls in the celebration. As we prep Christmas gift lists for family and friends let us not forget to include those who are gone from our sight but close to our hearts. Remember, St. Teresa said most souls are released from Purgatory on Christmas Day! Imagine their joy to celebrate Christmas in heaven. And imagine their gratitude to you as you work for the gift of their release!!!