NOVEMBER IS FOR ALL SOULS

During the month of November, we pray for the souls in purgatory. Purgatory is a transitional state of being after death for those souls whose imperfections at the hour of death prevent them from direct entry into Heaven. The souls in purgatory are headed towards Heaven. Souls in purgatory do not go to Hell. We can aid the souls in purgatory by having Masses said for them, but also by our own private devotions such as the rosary, divine mercy chaplet, prayers at the grave and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. The souls in purgatory can no longer pray for themselves, but they can, however, pray for us. Seek their intercession and pray for them. Although we do not know which individuals are there, we do know by faith and tradition that purgatory is a necessary stage for most people after death. During the month of November, I remember in a special way at Mass all those who have died and the souls in purgatory. If we pray for someone who is already in Heaven, God will apply our prayers to somebody in purgatory who needs them since He accepts our generosity and multiplies it one hundred fold. Please be sure to join us for the daily Masses in the month of November to pray for the dead. If anyone would like me to go to one of our cemeteries to bless a particular grave during November, I would be more than happy to do that. Monday night Eucharistic Adoration has moved for the winter months to the upstairs church. Please come and make a holy hour to pray for your own personal intentions and for the dead God Bless you! - Fr. Lance W. Harlow, Rector