www.byzcath.org Forums General Discussions Town Hall All Souls Day

Today in the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church is All Souls Day. It is for especially remembering and praying for the souls who are being purified before their entrance into Heaven. Regardless of how you feel about the theology of "purgatory," please (if you haven't yet already) be extra mindful and prayerful of those souls on the other side who need our prayers and penances to complete their journey home: to Heaven.

-- John

Dear Harmon,

We Orthodox, although sometimes hung up by the semantics of oppositional theology, also believe in the efficacy of prayer for the souls of the dead...VERY much.

Our memorial services which are traditionally held forty days after the death of someone, (and then after one year, and after that, whenever the need is felt), is a congregational prayer for the soul of the departed--unlike the Protestant memorial service which is only to remember the person in an earthly way. (I do not know the status of the Latin Church as far as these memorial services go, though I do like the custom of Mass cards which are given for the dead, and which were the most touching gestures I remember receiving for my grandparent's death).

So, I join with you, my Latin brother in Christ, in praying for the souls of all the departed. It has been said that it is like a healing balm for the soul, and whenever I pray for my loved ones who have passed on, especially for my departed father, my aunts and uncles, I feel like I am giving them a loving gift from the heart that transcends our realities.

In Christ,
Alice

Friends,

All of us here, who realize the need for purification of those souls who have passed on, can offer our prayers and sacrifices as the Holy Spirit directs us.

Sometimes, as I remember this need for prayer, I offer a brief word or thought or prayer for someone who has died that is called to mind.

Two weeks ago, a young man, LcCpl Daniel Bubb, USMC, age 20, was killed in Iraq. He was a friend of my high school age children, and a beloved relative of my neighbors who live down the road.

I am offering many prayers for him and invite you to do the same. His passing has deeply affected an entire community. His life was generous and deeply authentic in compassion and love.

Let us remember these young men and women who have given their lives in the most generous manner we can.

Peace in Christ,

Tammy

Prayers !