Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory is a sacred tradition rooted in the belief that death is not the end for those who believe in Christ. For us, it’s a transition—a doorway to eternity. Yet, many souls leave this world still in need of purification. These souls are not lost or condemned, but lovingly held in the merciful hands of God in a place we call purgatory. Through our prayers, especially the powerful intercession of the Church, we assist them on their journey to heaven, offering hope, healing, and the promise of eternal peace.
Purgatory is not a punishment. It is a state of mercy, where souls are prepared to enter the glory of Heaven. These souls are saved, yet not fully purified. They need our prayers—not because God is powerless, but because in His divine love, He allows us to participate in His work of redemption.
Jesus said in John 11:25-26 (NIV):
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory
What Is Purgatory?
Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory reflects a deep love rooted in the belief that death is not the end. For faithful Christians, it is the passage into eternal life. Yet, many souls depart this world still undergoing purification, not damned, but lovingly prepared for heaven.
Purgatory is not a place of punishment, but of mercy. The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes it as a “purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven” (CCC 1030). These souls—called the Holy Souls or Church Suffering—are assured of salvation but need final sanctification.
This doctrine shows God’s justice and mercy. While heaven is for the pure, God offers purification for those who died in His friendship, yet not fully sanctified. Our prayers for these souls are acts of charity, hope, and communion, forming the beautiful devotion we call the Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory.
By lifting our hearts to heaven on their behalf, we take part in God’s redemptive love. We ease their longing, accelerate their journey, and deepen our own spiritual compassion.
Why Do Catholics Pray for Souls in Purgatory?
Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory springs from love, mercy, and the deep bonds that unite the Church across time—those living on earth, the saints in heaven, and the faithful souls being purified.
We pray for the souls in purgatory because we believe in the Communion of Saints—a sacred spiritual connection that allows us to assist one another, even beyond the veil of death. While these souls cannot help themselves, our intercessory prayers, Masses, and sacrifices can shorten their time of purification and bring them closer to the eternal joy of heaven.
The Church teaches that our prayers are acts of spiritual mercy. Just as we help the hungry or sick, so too we help the suffering souls with the nourishment of grace. This practice is grounded in love—love that does not die with the body, but continues in powerful ways.
Saint Thomas Aquinas wrote, “Charity requires us to help our neighbors, and the souls in purgatory are our neighbors.” This spiritual help is most powerful through:
Offering the Holy Mass on their behalf
Praying the Rosary with purgatorial intentions
Daily reciting of indulgenced prayers
Acts of penance or sacrifice for their release
Just like midnight prayers for financial open doors seek breakthroughs in the spiritual realm, sacrifices offered for the dead unlock eternal doors of glory.
It is also a way of expressing gratitude and solidarity. Many of the souls in purgatory may be our loved ones, ancestors, forgotten priests, or strangers who have no one to pray for them. Through our prayers, they receive light and peace—and in return, they become our heavenly intercessors.
Praying for the souls in purgatory is not just a devotion—it is a work of love and a sacred duty. As Scripture reminds us in 2 Maccabees 12:46, “It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.”
Biblical and Theological Foundations for Purgatory
Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory is not a human invention—it is deeply rooted in both Scripture and sacred tradition. While the word “purgatory” does not appear explicitly in the Bible, the concept of post-death purification is present throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
In 2 Maccabees 12:43–46, Judas Maccabeus and his soldiers pray for their fallen comrades, asking God to forgive their sins and prepare them for the resurrection. Verse 46 affirms:
“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.”
This clear indication of prayer for the dead is one of the strongest scriptural supports for purgatory and has been upheld by the Church for centuries.
In the New Testament, Jesus implies the possibility of forgiveness after death. In Matthew 12:32, He says:
“Whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
This suggests that some sins can be forgiven after death—implying a state of purification between death and final glory.
Saint Paul also touches on this in 1 Corinthians 3:13–15, where he describes a process of testing and purification:
“…the fire will test the quality of each person’s work… If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss yet will be saved, but only as through fire.”
This passage has been traditionally interpreted as referencing the purifying fire of purgatory.
Theologically, purgatory flows from God’s holiness and mercy. Heaven is perfect and nothing unclean can enter (Revelation 21:27). Yet, many die in friendship with God but still imperfect. Purgatory ensures that souls are fully sanctified before beholding the Beatific Vision.
The doctrine was further developed by the early Church Fathers such as St. Augustine, St. Gregory the Great, and St. John Chrysostom, all of whom encouraged prayers and Masses for the dead.
In summary, Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory is biblically consistent and theologically sound—offering hope, healing, and continuity between the living and the dead.
Church History: Prayers for the Dead
The Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory is not a modern custom—it has been a sacred practice from the earliest days of the Church. Historical records, writings of the Church Fathers, and ancient liturgical traditions all testify to the consistent belief in praying for the dead.
In the early Christian catacombs, inscriptions like “Pray for me” and “May you find peace” are carved on tombstones. These were not poetic sentiments; they reflected the firm belief that the dead could benefit from the prayers of the living.
Tertullian, writing as early as the second century, mentions offering prayers and sacrifices for the departed on the anniversary of their death. St. Cyprian, St. Augustine, and St. Ambrose all confirmed the practice. In his Confessions, Augustine prayed for his mother, Monica, asking God to forgive her sins and receive her into His presence.
In St. John Chrysostom’s Homilies, he passionately urges:
“Let us help and commemorate them. If Job’s sons were purified by their father’s sacrifice, why would we doubt that our offerings for the dead bring them some consolation?”
By the 6th century, Pope St. Gregory the Great had clearly articulated the doctrine of purgatory and encouraged Masses for the dead. He shared a story of a monk named Justus, who was delivered from purgatory after 30 consecutive Masses were offered on his behalf—an early example of the Gregorian Masses still offered today.
Throughout the Middle Ages and into the modern era, the Church expanded her liturgies and devotions for the dead, including:
All Souls’ Day (established in the 10th century by St. Odilo of Cluny)
Daily Requiem Masses
The Enchiridion of Indulgences provides specific prayers for the souls in purgatory
Rosaries, chaplets, and novena devotions for the dead
This unbroken tradition proves that prayer for the dead is not only valid but essential. The Church, as a loving mother, has never abandoned her children—even after death. She intercedes for them until they reach the fullness of heaven.
So when we engage in Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory, we are standing in a sacred line of believers, carrying the torch of mercy and remembrance.
Types of Catholic Prayers for Souls in Purgatory
The beauty of the Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory lies in its variety and depth. The Church, guided by centuries of spiritual wisdom, offers many ways for the faithful to intercede on behalf of the suffering souls. Each method becomes a bridge of mercy, hastening their entry into eternal rest.
1. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass
The Mass is the most powerful prayer for the souls in purgatory. When the Eucharist is offered for them, Christ’s sacrifice is made present again, applying its saving grace to their souls. It is the highest form of intercession, capable of freeing them from purgatory. Many Catholics request Gregorian Masses—thirty consecutive Masses—for loved ones.
“From the rising of the sun to its setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised.” – Psalm 113:3
2. The Rosary
Praying the Rosary, especially the Sorrowful Mysteries, unites us with the Passion of Christ. When offered for the dead, it becomes a chain of hope lifting them toward heaven. Groups like the Purgatorian Archconfraternity encourage daily Rosaries for the departed.
3. The Chaplet for the Holy Souls
This chaplet is a special devotion focused on interceding for the souls in purgatory. Often prayed using regular Rosary beads, each decade implores God’s mercy for specific groups of the departed—such as parents, priests, strangers, or forgotten souls.
4. Novenas and Litanies
Novenas like the St. Gertrude Novena or the All Souls Novena are prayed over nine days with specific intentions for the faithful departed. Litanies, particularly the Litany for the Holy Souls, are also recommended, invoking the aid of saints and angels.
5. Indulgenced Prayers and Acts
The Church grants indulgences—remissions of temporal punishment—for certain prayers and acts, especially during November, the month of the Holy Souls. Examples include:
Visiting a cemetery and praying for the dead (plenary indulgence)
Praying “Eternal Rest grant unto them, O Lord…”
Reading Scripture for at least 30 minutes
6. Personal Sacrifice and Penance
Fasting, giving alms, or enduring suffering with love can be offered as spiritual offerings for the souls in purgatory. This practice reflects the words of St. Paul:
“I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I complete what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body.” – Colossians 1:24
By choosing to engage in these forms of Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory, the faithful cooperate with God’s mercy. These prayers console the dead and sanctify the living, drawing both closer to heaven.
St. Gertrude’s Prayer: A Powerful Devotion for the Holy Souls
One of the most beloved and widely prayed Catholic prayers for souls in purgatory comes from the heart of a 13th-century Benedictine nun—St. Gertrude the Great. Known for her mystical encounters and deep love for the suffering souls, she received a special revelation: that a particular prayer entrusted to her could release thousands of souls from purgatory each time it was sincerely prayed.
The Famous Prayer of St. Gertrude
This simple but deeply spiritual prayer is rooted in offering the Blood of Christ, the most perfect offering, for the purification of souls. When prayed with faith and love, it becomes an act of deep mercy—an invisible balm for those in torment.
Why This Prayer Is So Powerful
St. Gertrude’s prayer is unique because it:
Unites our intentions with the Mass, the highest form of worship.
Appeals to the Father’s mercy by invoking the sacrifice of His Son.
Extends the prayer not only to souls in purgatory but also to living sinners, emphasizing the communion of saints.
Many Catholics make it part of their daily routine, especially during November, the month dedicated to praying for the dead. Some pray it multiple times a day, trusting that their act of charity may free a soul from purgatory and send them to eternal joy.
The Vision and Promise
According to tradition, Jesus told St. Gertrude that 1,000 souls would be released from purgatory each time the prayer is devoutly said. While the Church doesn’t formally teach this as doctrine, it reflects the immense mercy of God and the importance of intercessory prayer.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” – Matthew 5:7
Ways to Pray It
Daily after the Rosary
During Eucharistic Adoration
In cemeteries while visiting graves
At the hour of death for a loved one
As part of a 30-day devotion or novena
Many families even incorporate this prayer into evening routines, teaching children to pray for their departed grandparents and loved ones.
By including St. Gertrude’s Prayer in your daily life, you are not only helping souls in purgatory but also opening your own heart to mercy, compassion, and the eternal hope of heaven. Truly, this is one of the most accessible and powerful Catholic prayers for souls in purgatory that any believer can embrace.
Why Catholics Pray for the Dead
While the term “purgatory” may not appear explicitly in the Bible, the Catholic prayer for souls in purgatory is deeply rooted in Scripture and the early traditions of the Church. The theology behind praying for the dead stems from a consistent belief in the communion of saints, the mercy of God, and the reality of final purification before entering heaven.
Scriptural Support for Praying for the Dead
One of the clearest biblical references is found in 2 Maccabees 12:44–46:
“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.”
This passage highlights Judas Maccabeus offering sacrifices for fallen soldiers who had died in battle. His motivation? That they might be forgiven of their sins. The Church has always held this passage as foundational in supporting the practice of offering prayers for the deceased.
Additionally, in the New Testament, Jesus affirms the concept of a purification process:
“And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.”
(Matthew 12:32)
St. Augustine interpreted this to mean that forgiveness of sins can occur after death, supporting the Church’s understanding of purgatory as a place of mercy and cleansing.
The Logic of Love and Justice
God is perfectly just and perfectly merciful. Many souls die in a state of grace but still carry the effects of sin or unresolved imperfections. Heaven is a place of perfect holiness, and no soul can enter unless fully purified. Purgatory is not a punishment—it’s God’s mercy in action, cleansing and preparing the soul for the beatific vision.
When we offer a Catholic prayer for souls in purgatory, we participate in that divine mercy. We cooperate with God’s justice by pleading for those who can no longer help themselves. It’s a spiritual act of charity and intercession, rooted in Scripture and guided by centuries of Church tradition.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
(Galatians 6:2)
Communion with the Dead
Catholics believe in the Communion of Saints—the unity between the Church Militant (those on earth), the Church Suffering (souls in purgatory), and the Church Triumphant (those in heaven). Through prayer, we remain united to our loved ones and offer them help on their final journey.
When you say a prayer for your family, remember those in your spiritual family still on their way to eternal rest.
How to Incorporate Catholic Prayers for Souls in Purgatory into Daily Life
Praying for the souls in purgatory doesn’t have to be reserved for special occasions like All Souls’ Day or funerals. Every Catholic is called to make intercession for the dead a regular and heartfelt part of their spiritual life. In fact, consistent Catholic prayer for souls in purgatory is one of the most powerful spiritual works of mercy we can offer.
Make It a Daily Habit
Start by setting aside just a few minutes each day to say a simple prayer for the souls in purgatory. Whether during your morning offering, after the Rosary, or before bed, these quiet moments of intercession are powerful.
Here’s a short traditional prayer you can say daily:
This brief prayer carries immense spiritual weight and can be offered as often as possible throughout the day.
Pray the Rosary for the Dead
The Holy Rosary is one of the most effective spiritual weapons in the Catholic tradition. When offered specifically for the intention of souls in purgatory, each Hail Mary becomes a lifeline of mercy.
You can dedicate an entire rosary to the Holy Souls or even just one decade a day with this intention. Add this prayer at the end:
“O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell. Lead all souls to Heaven, especially those most in need of Thy mercy.”
This intention can also be applied to the first Saturday devotion, often offered for the reparation of sins and the release of souls.
Light a Candle for the Departed
In many Catholic churches and homes, lighting a candle symbolizes prayer rising to heaven. Light a candle for deceased family members or forgotten souls and whisper a prayer for their rest. It’s a physical reminder of our connection to them and a silent intercession for mercy.
Offer Masses Regularly
Requesting a Mass for the repose of the soul of a loved one is one of the most powerful acts of charity you can do. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the greatest prayer of the Church. When offered for the dead, it applies the infinite merits of Christ’s death to their purification.
You can schedule a Mass intention on special dates like anniversaries, birthdays, or even monthly.
Participate in Devotions Like the Stations of the Cross
Offering the Stations of the Cross for the souls in purgatory is a profound act of love. As we walk with Christ through His Passion, we spiritually unite with the suffering souls who long to be with Him in glory.
Catholic Indulgences and Their Role in Helping Souls in Purgatory
The Catholic Church teaches that indulgences—properly understood—are one of the most powerful ways to assist the souls in purgatory. While often misunderstood, indulgences are not about “buying” salvation, but about applying the merits of Christ and the saints to souls in need of purification.
What Is an Indulgence?
An indulgence is the remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven. This means that even after a person’s sins are forgiven through Confession, the effects or consequences of those sins (known as temporal punishment) may still remain.
Indulgences help to cleanse those effects—both for the living and for the dead.
There are two types:
Plenary indulgence – removes all temporal punishment.
Partial indulgence – removes part of it.
When we gain an indulgence and apply it to a soul in purgatory, we help to speed their purification and entrance into heaven.
Conditions for Gaining an Indulgence
If these conditions are only partially met, a partial indulgence is granted.
“The Church, through Jesus Christ, opens to us the treasury of His merits and the merits of the saints so we can help others—especially those in purgatory.” – Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1471–1479)
Specific Indulgences for the Dead
The Church generously provides opportunities to gain indulgences specifically for the souls in purgatory:
Visiting a cemetery and praying for the dead (especially from Nov. 1st–8th) gains a plenary indulgence each day, applicable to a soul.
Reciting the Rosary in a church, family group, or religious community.
Reading the Bible for at least 30 minutes.
Spending time in Eucharistic Adoration for 30 minutes.
These indulgences, when offered with intention for the dead, become a spiritual lifeline. As you fulfill the conditions with love and sincerity, you open heaven’s treasury to the souls who can no longer pray for themselves.
Offering Love Through Mercy
Praying and working for indulgences is an act of selfless love. These are not rituals for personal gain, but opportunities to live out Jesus’ command:
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7).
By gaining indulgences, Catholics help the Church fulfill her role as a Mother—caring for her children not only in life, but also in death.
The Importance of All Souls’ Day and Monthly Memorials
The Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory takes on profound meaning every year on All Souls’ Day, observed on November 2nd. It is a sacred day dedicated to praying for all the faithful departed who are still undergoing purification before entering the glory of heaven.
The Significance of All Souls’ Day
All Souls’ Day is not a mere tradition—it is a solemn celebration rooted in both Scripture and centuries of Church teaching. It reflects the heart of the Church’s Communion of Saints, acknowledging our duty and privilege to intercede for our brothers and sisters who have gone before us.
On this day, Masses are offered throughout the world for the repose of the souls in purgatory. Parishioners light candles, visit cemeteries, and lift heartfelt prayers for their deceased loved ones, believing that their acts of mercy hasten the souls’ journey to heaven.
“It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.” — 2 Maccabees 12:46
Monthly Memorial Masses
Beyond All Souls’ Day, many Catholic parishes offer Monthly Memorial Masses, often on the first Friday or Saturday of each month, dedicated to remembering the dead. These Masses create regular, rhythmic moments for families and communities to:
Recall the names of departed loved ones
Pray for their eternal rest
Unite with the Church in her redemptive mission
Attending or requesting these Masses is one of the most spiritually impactful gifts one can give to the dead.
Acts of Charity and Remembrance
In addition to prayers, Catholics often:
Light candles in church or at home altars.
Offer alms in memory of the departed.
Visit graves to pray and show respect.
Write names of loved ones in Parish Books of Remembrance.
These simple, sacred gestures bring comfort and hope—reminding us that love doesn’t end with death. The Church’s commitment to praying for the dead is a powerful act of faith in eternal life and in God’s endless mercy.
How to Cultivate a Daily Habit of Praying for the Dead
The Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory doesn’t have to be limited to certain feast days or monthly memorials. In fact, one of the most beautiful devotions you can cultivate is daily intercession for the dead—a quiet but powerful ministry of love and mercy that brings you closer to the heart of God.
Why Pray Daily for the Souls in Purgatory?
Souls in purgatory can no longer pray for themselves. They rely entirely on the prayers and sacrifices of the living. When you intercede for them, you become a vessel of God’s mercy, participating in the mystery of redemption.
This spiritual practice also draws blessings into your own life. It softens the heart, inspires humility, and reminds us of eternity—making us more mindful of our own spiritual journey.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” — Matthew 5:7
How to Make It a Daily Habit
Here are some simple ways to integrate daily prayers for the souls in purgatory into your life:
Morning Offering: Include a brief prayer for the departed as part of your morning prayer.
Daily Rosary: Dedicate a decade (or the entire Rosary) for the souls in purgatory.
Angelus or Divine Mercy Chaplet: These traditional devotions can be offered for the dead.
Eternal Rest Prayer: Repeat it during the day, especially when passing a cemetery or hearing about someone’s death.
“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.”
Keep a Remembrance Book
Consider maintaining a Book of Souls, where you write the names of your departed loved ones and others you wish to pray for. Offer a short prayer for them daily, especially during November—the Month of the Holy Souls.
You can also set a daily reminder on your phone or keep a small memorial corner in your home with a candle and crucifix to keep this spiritual work of mercy alive in your routine.
Powerful Testimonies of Answered Prayers for the Dead
One of the most faith-affirming aspects of the Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory is how often these prayers are answered in tangible, consoling ways. Though we may not always see the full fruit of our intercession, many saints, mystics, and everyday Catholics have shared inspiring testimonies of what happens when we lift up the faithful departed.
A Dream That Brought Peace
A Catholic mother shared how, after praying the Rosary daily for her deceased husband, she had a vivid dream one night. In it, he appeared radiant and at peace, thanking her for the prayers. The sense of closure she felt confirmed in her heart that he had finally reached heaven.
“I felt a joy I hadn’t known since he died. It was like God allowed me a glimpse of eternity.”
St. Gertrude’s Intercession
St. Gertrude the Great, a 13th-century Benedictine nun, was known for her deep devotion to the holy souls. One day, while reciting her now-famous prayer, she received a vision of countless souls being released from purgatory and ascending into the light of heaven. The Lord confirmed to her that her prayers were not in vain.
“Eternal Father, I offer You the most Precious Blood of Your Divine Son, Jesus… for the holy souls in purgatory.” — Prayer of St. Gertrude
The Power of the Mass
A priest once shared that he offered Masses for an unknown soul whose name had been written anonymously on the church’s All Souls Day list. Months later, a woman came to him in tears, saying she had dreamt that her late brother told her he was finally free and at peace—on the same date the priest had celebrated the last Mass for him.
These stories remind us that God honors our love, our prayer, and our faith, even when we don’t see immediate results. Souls in purgatory long for the light of heaven, and your intercession might be the final push that brings them home.
November Devotions and Why They Matter
In the Catholic tradition, November is the Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory, a sacred time set aside to remember, honor, and pray for those who have died but have not yet reached the fullness of heaven. This devotion isn’t just a tradition—it’s a powerful spiritual work of mercy rooted in Scripture, Church teaching, and centuries of Catholic practice.
Why November?
The Church dedicates November to the Holy Souls beginning with two key liturgical celebrations:
November 1 – All Saints’ Day, when we honor the saints in heaven.
November 2 – All Souls’ Day, when we pray specifically for the souls in purgatory.
This back-to-back observance reflects a profound truth: some have already attained the crown of glory, while others still await purification. We, the Church Militant on earth, are called to intercede for the Church Suffering—those in purgatory.
“It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sins.” — 2 Maccabees 12:46
Devotional Practices in November
During this holy month, Catholics are encouraged to:
Visit cemeteries and pray for the dead, especially during the first 8 days of November. A plenary indulgence (under usual conditions) can be obtained each day for a soul in purgatory.
Attend Masses for the dead or request a Mass intention for a loved one.
Pray the Rosary, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, or the Prayer of St. Gertrude the Great.
Light votive candles in memory of departed souls and offer up daily sacrifices on their behalf.
These acts are more than rituals; they’re gifts of love. When we remember the dead, especially in this month, we strengthen the bond of the Communion of Saints, offering hope and consolation to those still waiting for heaven’s embrace.
“Our prayers can help them. Our sacrifices can free them. Our love can bring them home.”
Powerful Novenas for the Souls in Purgatory
In the Catholic tradition, novenas—prayers said over nine days—are a deeply spiritual way to intercede for specific needs. When prayed for the souls in purgatory, novenas become a channel of mercy and hope, helping to hasten their purification and journey into heaven. These sustained prayers represent love in action—offering time, intention, and faith to help others reach eternal peace.
You may also find strength in this touching Catholic prayer for a departed aunt, asking God for her peaceful rest and joyful reunion in heaven.
1. The Novena for the Holy Souls in Purgatory
This is one of the most powerful and widely used novenas. It typically begins on October 24 and ends on November 1, leading into All Souls’ Day. However, it can be prayed any time of year.
Sample Opening Prayer:
O Holy Souls in Purgatory, you are the certain heirs of heaven. You are suffering in flames of love and longing. We beg of you to pray for us who struggle still in this life. And we, in turn, offer our prayers, sacrifices, and love to God for you, that you may soon be called to the joy of heaven. Amen.
Each day of the novena includes special reflections, prayers, and often the Litany for the Holy Souls.
2. Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Our Lady of Mount Carmel is known as the “Comforter of the Afflicted” and the “Queen of the Holy Souls.” Catholics believe she has a special relationship with the souls in purgatory and intercedes for their swift release.
This novena, prayed with devotion and the Scapular of Mount Carmel, calls upon Mary’s maternal compassion to plead for the souls in God’s refining fire.
Excerpt:
O beautiful Flower of Carmel, most fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, holy and singular, who brought forth the Son of God, still ever remaining a pure Virgin, assist us in our needs and show mercy to the souls of the faithful departed.
These novenas draw heaven and earth together. When we commit to praying them, we’re engaging in a divine partnership—uniting our prayers with God’s mercy for those awaiting their eternal reward.
FAQs
13 CATHOLIC TEACHINGS — CLEAR ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
1. What is the Indulgenced Prayer for the Souls in Purgatory?
The “Eternal Rest” prayer is indulgenced when prayed devoutly.
Also, visiting a cemetery from Nov 1–8 and praying for the dead can earn a plenary indulgence (under normal conditions).
Prayer: “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord…”
2. How Do You Pray for the Souls on All Souls Day?
Attend Mass for the dead
Visit a cemetery and pray
Offer indulgences
Recite prayers like the Eternal Rest or Rosary
3. How Do Catholics Pray for Departed Souls?
We pray through:
Masses
Rosaries and Chaplets
Sacrifices and Alms
Indulgences
Scripture:
“Pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from sin.” — 2 Maccabees 12:46
4. How to Gain a Plenary Indulgence for Souls in Purgatory
Steps:
Be in a state of grace
Confess within 20 days
Receive Holy Communion
Pray for the Pope’s intentions
Do the indulgenced act (e.g. visit a cemetery, pray the Rosary)
Detach from all sin
5. How to Pray a Novena for the Souls in Purgatory
A novena is a 9-day prayer of intercession. Include:
Opening prayer
Reflection
Chaplet or Rosary
Specific intention for the souls
6. What is the Prayer at 3 O’clock for the Souls in Purgatory?
At 3 PM, pray the Divine Mercy prayer:
“O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You.”
Scripture:
“At three o’clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice and gave up His spirit.” — Mark 15:34-37
7. Does Praying the Rosary Help the Souls in Purgatory?
Yes, especially when offered for the dead. The Church teaches that Mary intercedes and brings comfort to the suffering souls.
8. How Long Should You Pray for a Soul?
Pray as long as you feel led. The Church encourages continual prayer, especially on anniversaries and All Souls’ Day.
9. How Much Time Does a Plenary Indulgence Remove from Purgatory?
We no longer measure time in days/years. A plenary indulgence removes all temporal punishment, while a partial indulgence removes some.
10. Can Souls in Purgatory Pray for Each Other or for Us?
They cannot help themselves, but many saints believed that they can intercede for us once they reach heaven.
11. Is Saying the Rosary a Plenary Indulgence?
Yes—if prayed in a group, family, or in front of the Blessed Sacrament (with other conditions met).
12. Do Souls in Purgatory Know When We Pray for Them?
Yes. Many saints say they feel relief, gratitude, and joy when we pray for them.
13. Which Saints Prayed for Souls in Purgatory?
St. Padre Pio
St. Catherine of Genoa
St. Gertrude the Great (who gave us the famous prayer)
St. Faustina Kowalska
Conclusion
The Catholic Prayer for Souls in Purgatory is more than a pious tradition—it is a profound act of love, mercy, and solidarity. As members of the Mystical Body of Christ, we are spiritually connected not only with the living but also with the faithful departed who await their final purification.
Purgatory is not a place of punishment, but of preparation—a holy process where the soul is refined like gold, cleansed of every stain, and made ready to stand in the full glory of God. Our prayers, sacrifices, Mass intentions, and devotions are powerful tools in this divine process. As St. John Chrysostom said, “Let us help and commemorate them. If Job’s sons were purified by their father’s sacrifice, why would we doubt that our offerings for the dead bring them some consolation?”
By praying for the souls in purgatory, we fulfill one of the spiritual works of mercy, offering hope to those who can no longer pray for themselves. And in return, these holy souls—once they enter heaven—become our most faithful intercessors before the throne of God.
Let us never grow weary in this sacred duty. Let our prayers rise like incense, and our faith be the bridge that draws heaven and earth together. Whether through novenas, daily remembrances, the Rosary, or offering the Holy Mass, each act of devotion sends ripples of mercy into eternity.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.