Ways to Assist the Souls in Purgatory
MASSES OFFERED FOR THEM
"From the beginning, the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, thus purified, they may attain the beatific vi- sion of God." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1032)
VISIT TO A CEMETERY
An indulgence, applicable only to the Souls in Purgatory, is granted to the faithful, who devoutly visit a cemetery and pray, even if only mentally, for the departed. The indulgence is plenary each day from the 1st to the 8th of November; on other days of the year it is partial. (Enchiridion of Indulgences, 1968, No. 13)
PRAYER & SACRIFICE FOR THEIR RELIEF
Eternal rest grant to them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. (Partial indulgence, applicable only to souls in purgatory. Enchiridion of Indulgences, 1968, No. 13)
PRAYER FOR THE SOULS IN PURGATORY
O Most Gentle Heart of Jesus, ever present in the Blessed Sacrament, ever consumed with burning love for the poor captive souls in Purgatory, have mercy on the souls of Your departed servants. Be not severe in Your judgements but let some drops of Your Precious Blood fall upon the devouring flames. And do Thou, O Merciful Savior, send Your holy angels to conduct them to a place of refreshment, light and peace. Amen.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O LORD, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
