The Essence of Purgatory

A eulogy is offered, and the speaker inevitably assures those in attendance that the deceased is in a better place and no longer suffering. It sounds comforting, but is almost always not true.

While many choose to debate the existence of Purgatory; the essence of Purgatory is not engaged nearly enough. And while entrance into Purgatory guarantees the eventual entrance into Heaven, the method of purification is anything but a formality. As informed Catholics, we must understand that only a perfected and purified soul can enter into Heaven.

Do not be deceived! Some of the greatest Saints - most notably Saint Maria Faustina - have warned those on earth of the suffering a soul must endure in Purgatory. By most accounts, this suffering is intense. All of it justified. All of it by account of our love of self over love of Christ. 

Of additional importance, no soul in Purgatory can pray for themselves. It is only through the prayers of us who remain that a soul in Purgatory can move closer to Heaven - and in turn suffer less.

Something to think about during the next eulogy . . . . .