After numerous articles on Purgatory, there is still need for more Catechesis

After numerous articles on Purgatory, there is still need for more Catechesis

This reality is the most contentious truth that the Church must deal with.  Certainly the Mother of God; Mary Most Holy, the Real presence of Christ in the Euchristic hosts, and the absolute disbelief of the Holy Trinity.  Dealing with purgatory, where it is indeed a location, time spent for a purging of our soul, and prayers for the Church Penitent.

Let’s begin with the location of this place we assume is real without our ability to describe any earthly characteristics.  Before Christ incarnated himself no one was able to get into heaven until the Passion became the number one essential that God planned for our redemption.  Jesus cried out in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit.  And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom.  The earth quaked, rocks were split, tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised.  And coming forth from their tombs after his resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many.  (Mt 27: 50 - 53).

Where were these dead all that time before Christ assumed humanity, suffered, died and rose from the dead  They certainly were not being punished.  Lord, my God, I call out by day; at night I cry aloud in your presence.  Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry.  For my soul is filled with troubles; my life draws near to Sheol.  I am reckoned with those who go down to the pit.  (Ps 88: 2 - 5).  

From earliest times Sacred Scripture detailed some place for the dead to remain until God would send a Messiah.  His crucifixion/resurrection completed this and released the dead who waited for his appearance

God is eternally perfect and no one with the slightest imperfection will be accepted into his presence.  Using the scenario of how steel is burned to remove the dross so the finished product will be completely strong to withstand the most severe turbulence.  Once purified the finished product will become impregnable.  So it is with our soul; it has reached the point of perfection and is ready to sit with Almighty God at his throne.

For those who refuse to accept what the Church says regarding purgatory, read (CCC  1030 -1032).  The Catechism of the Catholic Church is the latest tool begun centuries ago and just modified into understandable language and is the Truth for the Church.

My first article is titled “Souls are Waiting” (Aug 12, 2017).  Another one is named ("They Keep Coming” June 7, 2017).  There are at least 4 more and some allusion to purgatory in several others as well.

Ralph B. Hathaway