I like the analogy that our souls are like a piece of enamel that has some “stain” on it that requires additional cleaning. Purgatory serves this purpose. As Paul tells us we are to be judged, with each man’s work will be tried. If a righteous man’s work fails the test, “He will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire” (1 Cor 3:15). We shouldn’t think of Purgatory as a place, but rather a “condition of our existence.” The stain left on our souls from sins, venial or mortal, even with sins forgiven, has to be removed. Old Testament also taught that anyone/anything destined for God must be perfected. According to EWTN: “after death those who live in a state of purification experience the same ecclesial solidarity which works through prayer, prayers for suffrage and love for their other brothers and sisters in the faith. Purification is lived in the essential bond created between those who live in this world and those who enjoy eternal beatitude.” So, prayer helps you become perfected, each Mass that is said, especially Masses said directly on your behalf. We would do well to remember that the Church Suffering are the Souls in Purgatory. One way or another we will be perfected. Nothing imperfect can enter the Presence of God. We have a duty to pray for one another. Purgatory is a place of perfection. We pray for the Church suffering to be perfected. It is a process of purification. mc
