In this month of November, when we remember and pray for the souls in purgatory, I’ve been reflecting on how fragile this idea is. That word might not be the best word, but this is what I mean.
My great-grandfather died before my dad was born. I know a few stories about him, but that’s it. And despite the fact that he had 5 kids, and a few dozen grandchildren and great grandchildren, there’s a finite list of people who still remember him or even know his name.
And I could probably write down most of that list. And of that list, how many of them are practicing the faith? How many of them offer prayers for the dead?
This is what I mean by fragile. In just a few generations, people are forgotten.
The ability to pray for the souls in purgatory should not be taken lightly. Because at the end of the day, if we believe that these souls need our prayers, who’s praying for my great-grandfather?
I hope other family members, for sure, but the question I ask myself, and I ask you, is: if I don’t do it, who will? If we don’t do it, who will?
Let us pray. Heavenly Father, today we offer our prayers for the souls in purgatory and in particular for our ancestors and those who have no one to pray for them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Keep fighting the good fight. Our Lady of Victory, pray for us.
