November 17, 2025
Most of us have heard the term “Communion of Saints” all our lives. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important when we have lost someone we love?
In the simplest terms, there is a spiritual solidarity that binds the faithful on Earth with the souls in purgatory, and the saints in heaven, and Christ is at the head of this mystical body. That is awfully theological, but how does it affect those of us who are grieving?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that in the Communion of Saints, “a perennial link of charity exists between the faithful who have already reached their heavenly home, those who are expiating their sins in purgatory and those who are still pilgrims on earth. Between them there is, too, an abundant exchange of all good things.” (1475)
Through this exchange, the holiness of one person can benefit others, which points to the importance of praying for others, especially those who have yet to fully achieve heaven and rely on the prayers of the faithful.
Choose different people every year to pray for — and don’t just do it during November but all year long— and pray for the gift of God’s grace to free them from the weight of all the consequences of their sin as soon as possible.
God hears all our prayers and responds with merciful love, especially when it comes to those we love the most.
A Prayer for Holy Souls in Purgatory
Lord Jesus, lovingly welcome into your presence my deceased family, relatives and friends who have completed their journey on this earth, and have gone to their rest in the hope of rejoicing with you forever in heaven.
Source of all life and love, in your infinite mercy, look favorably upon their goodness, and forgive any sins they may have committed, so they may enjoy for all eternity the great rewards you have promised to those who believe in you. Amen.
V. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.
R. And let the perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
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