As the seasons change and we approach the end of the liturgical year, the Church invites us to reflect on the “last things” — heaven, hell, and purgatory. Last week, we focused on the joy of heaven. Today, we turn to purgatory, a topic sometimes misunderstood but filled with hope. Purgatory expresses God’s mercy by assuring us that, even if we die imperfect, God still desires to bring us into full communion with Him. This hope is reflected in today’s readings, which call us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength, follow His commandments, and rely on the intercession of Jesus, our eternal High Priest. Purgatory reminds us that, even in our weaknesses, God’s love continues to transform us so we can be united with Him forever.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that purgatory is a temporary state of purification for those who die in friendship with God but still need cleansing from attachment to sin (CCC 1030-1031). Heaven is the fullness of God’s holiness, and purgatory ensures that we enter His presence fully purified. Rather than a punishment, purgatory is a gift of God’s mercy. It allows us to undergo a final transformation, healing the wounds of sin and preparing us to experience the fullness of God’s love. The Bible offers glimpses of this purification. 2 Maccabees 12:45 speaks of prayers for the dead, and 1 Corinthians 3:15 describes souls being saved “as through fire.” This fire is God’s purifying love, burning away the selfishness that still clings to us.
Today’s readings highlight the two greatest commandments: love God with your whole being and love your neighbor as yourself. We know we don’t always live up to these commands perfectly. At times, we love God half-heartedly or struggle to love others as we should. Thankfully, God never abandons us. His desire is always to draw us closer to Him. Purgatory gives us hope that, even when we fall short, God’s mercy will complete what is lacking in our love. The Second Reading from Hebrews (7:23-28) reminds us that Jesus, as our eternal High Priest, intercedes for us continuously. Unlike the priests of old who had to offer sacrifices repeatedly, Jesus’ one sacrifice on the cross was sufficient for all time. His intercession continues even after death, walking with us through purgatory and offering us the grace to complete the work of holiness in us. This gives us reason to hope. Purgatory is not a place of despair but a place of love, where Jesus accompanies us, bringing us to the perfection needed to stand in the presence of God.
As Catholics, we are encouraged to pray for the souls in purgatory because our prayers assist them on their journey toward heaven. One powerful way to do this is by offering a Mass intention. This practice is rooted in our belief in the communion of saints — the spiritual unity of all God’s people, whether on earth, in purgatory, or in heaven. Just as we pray for each other in life, we also pray for those who have gone before us. This is an act of mercy and love, expressing our belief that love endures beyond death.
Our parish updated its Mass intention policy last November. Here is a brief reminder:
Priority is given to immediate family members scheduling a Mass for the 1st anniversary of a loved one’s death.
Other intentions will not be scheduled far in advance, but we will do our best to honor requests.
When necessary, excess intentions may be sent to missions or retired priests for private celebration.
A Monthly Memorial Mass that combines multiple intentions into one celebration is an option when the scheduling of individual Masses is not possible.
It is important to remember that Mass intentions are spiritual acts, not transactions. The stipend offered supports the parish and the priest, but it does not “buy” the graces of the Mass. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross has already accomplished everything for our salvation. When a priest offers a Mass, he commends the intention to God, trusting in His mercy to provide what is needed.
As we reflect on today’s readings and the teaching on purgatory, we are reminded of God’s unwavering love. Even in our weaknesses and imperfections, God continues to draw us closer to Himself. Purgatory is not a punishment but a sign of hope — a promise that God will complete the good work He began in us, even after death. It invites us to trust in God’s mercy and to help one another through prayer and love. This week, let’s take to heart Jesus’ words in the Gospel: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.” This is the path to the kingdom of God. As Jesus tells the scribe, “You are not far from the kingdom.” Through love, prayer, and intercession, may we draw closer to that kingdom, purified by God’s mercy and ready to enjoy His presence forever.