We ca n help the souls who are preparing to enter Heaven and still remain in Purgatory—in the midst of unspeakable pains and sufferings—a great deal and in various ways. We know that "the union of the wayfarers with the brethren who have fallen asleep in the peace of Christ is by no means interrupted, but on the contrary... is strengthened through the communication of spiritual goods" (6). Let us now be more united with those who have gone before us!
The Second Reading of the Mass reminds us that Judas Maccabeus, having taken up a collection, sent two thousand silver drachmas to Jerusalem so that a sacrifice might be offered for the sins of those who had died in battle, because he considered that a great grace was reserved for those who have died after a pious life. And the sacred author adds: It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins (7). From the very beginning, the Church has offered suffrages and prayers for the faithful departed. Saint Isidore of Seville already stated in his time that offering sacrifices and prayers for the repose of the deceased was a custom observed throughout the entire Church. For this reason, the Saint asserts, it is believed to be a custom taught by the Apostles themselves (8).
The Holy Mass, which has infinite value, is the most important thing we have to offer for the souls in Purgatory (9). We can also offer for them the indulgences we gain on earth (10); our prayers, especially the Holy Rosary; our work, pain, setbacks, etc. These suffrages are the best way to demonstrate our love for those who have gone before us and are awaiting their encounter with God; in a particular way, we must pray for our relatives and friends. Our parents will always occupy a place of honor in these prayers. They also help us immensely in this exchange of spiritual goods of the Communion of Saints. "The blessed souls in purgatory. Out of charity, justice, and a forgivable selfishness—they can do so much before God!—keep them very much in mind in your sacrifices and in your prayer.
"God grant that when you speak of them, you may be able to say: 'My good friends, the souls in purgatory...'"
HCD