31-DAY NOVENA FOR THE HOLY SOULS IN PURGATORY: DAILY PRAYERS

DAY 31

BY A GOOD INTENTION TO MAKE EVEN OUR MOST TRIVIAL ACTIONS AND SUFFERINGS MERITORIOUS, AND OFFER THEM FOR THE DELIVERANCE OF THE HOLY SOULS

As rational beings we should have a distinct object in view in all our actions. By performing even the most trivial act from the motive, thereby to please our dear Lord, and to do His holy Will, they may become meritorious. It is understood that these acts are not contrary to the commandments of God and His holy Church, and that the person be in a state of grace. People who are working from early in the morning till late at night can assist the suffering souls in an efficacious manner by offering their toil and fatigue in union with the merits of Jesus and Mary for the relief of the suffering souls. Sick persons, and those enduring mental sufferings, such as temptations, scruples, contempt, slander, unjust treatment; those who mourn for the loss of a near relative or a dear friend, etc., may make the same intention in regard to their particular suffering.

Oración: My dear Redeemer, how many occasions have I lost to gain merits by a good intention, and of thus assisting Thy holy spouses! Pardon my negligence, and graciously assist me to turn every precious moment of time to advantage by a good intention, and to make up for the past. In union with Thy merits, and those of Thy holy Mother Mary and all the saints, I unite all my thoughts, words, deeds, and spiritual and bodily sufferings for the future, till my last breath, and offer them for the suffering souls. In return I beseech the holy souls to obtain for me, and all those for whom I am in duty and love bound to pray, spiritual and temporal favors, and abundant grace to lead a holy life and persevere to the end of their life. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Petición especial: Reza por las almas que gastaron el tiempo inútilmente, y fueron negligentes en hacer y renovar la buena intención.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them; may they rest in peace. Amen.
(Say three times; 300 days’ Indulgence to all who recite this prayer three times every day.)

Práctica: Al levantarme por la mañana no omitiré nunca hacer mi buena intención para el día siguiente, y renovarla al menos cada hora diciendo: Por amor a Jesús y a María, y por el alivio de las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 30

THE HEROIC ACT OF CHARITY FOR THE SOULS IN PURGATORY

This heroic act, in behalf of the souls in Purgatory, consists in a voluntary offering made in their favor to the Divine Majesty, by any one of the faithful, of all works of satisfaction done by him in his life, as well as of all the suffrages which shall be offered for him after his death. By this offering he foregoes in their behalf only that special fruit which belongs to himself, so that he is not hindered thereby in praying for his own necessities, or those of others.

This act of charity, therefore, will not deprive us of any merit. Besides, by resigning our own claims on all works of satisfaction in favor of the souls departed, we shall gain for ourselves the special love of God, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all the saints, according to the promise of Christ: “With what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you again.” (Matth. vii. 2.) Furthermore, the gratitude of the holy souls will induce them, in turn, to pray for us in Heaven, so that we may either escape Purgatory, or be blessed by a speedy deliverance therefrom.

This heroic act of charity was enriched with many indulgences by Pope Pius IX. They are as follows:

I. The Indult of a Privileged Altar, personally, every day in the year to all priests who shall have made this offering.

II. A Plenary Indulgence daily, applicable only to the departed, to all the faithful, who shall have made this offering, whenever they go to Holy Communion, provided they visit a church or public oratory, and pray there for some time for the intention of his Holiness.

III. A Plenary Indulgence, every Monday, to all who hear Mass in aid of the souls in Purgatory, provided they fulfil the other conditions mentioned above.

Todas las indulgencias concedidas o por conceder, que han de ganar los fieles que han hecho esta ofrenda, pueden aplicarse a las santas almas del purgatorio.

Por último, Su Santidad, el Papa Pío IX, teniendo en cuenta a los jóvenes que aún no han hecho la Primera Comunión, así como a los enfermos, a los aquejados de enfermedades crónicas, a los ancianos, a los labradores, a los presos y a otros que están privados de la Comunión o no pueden oír Misa los lunes, declaró que, que para todos los fieles que no pueden oír Misa los lunes, se disponga de la Misa que se oye los domingos, y que en favor de los que aún no han hecho la Primera Comunión, o tienen impedimento para comulgar, ha dejado a la voluntad de sus respectivos Ordinarios autorizar a los confesores a conmutar las obras aquí ordenadas.

Oración: We humbly beseech Thee, O Lord! graciously accept our prayers, with the indulgences attached, for the suffering souls. We offer Thee, in their behalf, the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Redeemer, and His infinite merits united with the merits of His most holy and immaculate Virgin Mother Mary, her ever-glorious spouse, St. Joseph, the holy Apostles, and all the spirits of Heaven, that by virtue of these merits our devotion may be to them a source of consolation, and open to them the portals of Heaven, there to love, praise, and glorify Thee, world without end. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que, mientras estuvieron en la tierra, hicieron el Acto Heroico de Caridad.

Práctica: Esfuérzate, cada día, en realizar un acto de caridad para con las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 29

PERSEVERANCE IN PRAYER FOR THE DEPARTED

Holy Church, our good and tender mother, most ardently desires that her children be admitted to the beatific vision of God, and incessantly offers pious supplications, during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and the Divine Office, to obtain mercy for the holy suffering souls, thereby teaching us to think of them frequently; for to the end of time there shall be souls in the flames of Purgatory in need of assistance and fervent prayers, which we should never fail to offer in their behalf. The ways of God are often inscrutable, and His designs concerning the holy souls are unknown to us; hence there may be among their number some who have a just claim on our assistance, although a long time may have passed away since the close of their earthly career. Should the souls of our own beloved dead no longer be in need of our suffrages, they will be bestowed upon others, who are deserving of our mercy as well; thus, our prayer, our labor of love, will not be less salutary and meritorious, and indeed, life is not too long for us to practise this genuine charity to the end.

Oración: We beseech Thee, O Lord! grant us the grace to persevere in our charity towards the souls in Purgatory; deign to look with eyes of mercy upon these penitent souls; deliver them from their sufferings, and open to them the portals of Heaven. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que sufren por la inconstancia en el servicio de Dios.

Práctica: Examina cómo has cumplido tus buenos propósitos, particularmente de qué manera has realizado tus devociones y obras de caridad en favor de las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 28

THEY HAVE GREAT REASON TO FEAR, WHO SHOW NO MERCY TOWARDS THE SOULS DEPARTED

“With what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you again.” (Matth. vii, 2.) It will be readily seen that this word of the Divine Saviour is applicable also to the assistance we should render the souls departed. The learned Cardinal Cajetan says: “Those who in this life forget the departed, will, hereafter, in my opinion, be deprived in Purgatory of all participation in good works and devout prayers, though ever so many be offered for them by others; for Divine Justice is wont in this manner to punish their cruelty and hardness of heart.” Hence, he who shows no mercy towards the suffering souls, and remains cold and indifferent to their pains, shall, even though his soul may have escaped eternal damnation, languish in the flames of Purgatory, without relief and consolation, and look in vain for friends and intercessors. The faithful, however, who do not forget the suffering souls completely, but seldom think of them, will not be deprived of friends and intercessors entirely, but will derive very little help and comfort, and their complaints will be answered by the words of St. Paul: “He who soweth sparingly, shall also reap sparingly.” (2 Cor. ix. 6.)

Oración: O God! Whose goodness and mercy are infinite, have pity on the souls of those, who, on account of their want of charity, are undeserving of Thy bounty, and accept our fervent prayers, in reparation for their faults, that they may not suffer without consolation. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que sufren por falta de caridad.

Práctica: Soporta con paciencia la ingratitud de los demás, y ofrécela por las almas del Purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 27

THE LORD REWARDS CHARITY TOWARDS THE HOLY SOULS

"Bienaventurados los misericordiosos, porque ellos alcanzarán misericordia". (Matth. v. 7.)

Theologians assert that those who bestow mercy upon the suffering souls shall themselves find great relief and assistance in Purgatory; they consider active charity towards the holy souls a mark of predestination to eternal happiness. It is true, says St. Thomas Aquinas, that he who satisfies for the suffering souls does not satisfy for himself, but, it is also true, adds the saint, that he deserves more than the remission of pain, namely, eternal life. Hence it is that God Himself, by the mouth of the Royal Prophet, expresses Himself: “Blessed is he that understandeth concerning the needy and the poor: the Lord will deliver him in the evil day.” (Ps. xl. 1.) The assistance of the holy souls is also experienced in temporal wants, in favor of their benefactors. Bishop Colmar of Mayence writes: “These destitute, suffering souls do not wait until they enter Heaven to exhibit their gratitude towards their benefactors: whilst they still languish in Purgatory, they pray without intermission for the welfare of soul and body, obtain for them recovery from disease, assistance in poverty, help in necessities, counsel and protection on journeys and in danger, preservation and increase of their temporal goods, aid them in the salvation of their souls, and, above all, come to their relief in the agonies of death and before the judgment-seat of God.”

Oración: We beseech Thee, O Lord! graciously to hear the humble and fervent prayers we offer for the souls in Purgatory, and grant that the charity we extend towards our suffering brothers and sisters, may, by their supplications, obtain for us protection and help. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que sufren en el purgatorio por su falta de gratitud.

Práctica: En las necesidades espirituales y temporales, refúgiate en las almas santas.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 26

BY DELIVERING THE SOULS FROM PURGATORY WE PROMOTE THE HONOR OF GOD

According to St. Paul, the Apostle, the honor and glory of God should be the principal motive of all our actions: “Whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever else you do; do all things for the glory of God.” (1 Cor. x. 31.) “The glorification of God” ought to be our special aim in our works, most particularly in our acts of charity for the dead; and justly so, for, by delivering these holy souls, we lead them to Heaven, where alone God is perfectly known, loved and glorified.

Si Santa Teresa y otros santos han declarado estar dispuestos a sufrir todas las torturas imaginables por promover la gloria de Dios en un solo grado, qué no hemos de hacer y sufrir por la liberación de estas almas de las llamas del Purgatorio, ya que con ello aumentamos su gloria en millones de grados, y no por un solo momento, sino por toda la eternidad.

Oración: Increase, O Lord! Thy honor and glory, that all created beings may praise Thy mercy forever, because Thou hast shown clemency towards the souls who love Thee and ardently desire to behold Thee. Comfort them, then, O Lord! Let them behold Thy face in the land of the blessed, where they shall honor, praise and glorify Thee, world without end. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que, mientras estuvieron en la tierra, promovieron la gloria de Dios.

Práctica: Ten una buena intención antes de cada trabajo que realices.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 25

GRATITUDE OF THE HOLY SOULS

The prayers and works of charity which we bestow on the suffering souls in Purgatory, not only increase our spiritual merit, they also call forth the gratitude of the holy, ransomed souls; for when these dear souls are, by our endeavors, admitted to the vision of God, they cease not to prove the warmth of their thankfulness and love by imploring for us the help of which we are so much in need in the manifold dangers and great troubles of life. How can the faithful departed, who are loved by God so tenderly, and predestined to glory, fail to be able to pray, not, indeed, for themselves, because they are not in a condition to merit, yet to pray with efficacy for their benefactors still alive?

Not only will they speedily pay their debt of gratitude to those who befriend them, but, our dear Lord Himself, whose greater honor and glory we have promoted by our devotion to the holy souls, will readily assist them to requite the services rendered them by the faithful upon earth. St. Alphonsus Liguori says: “He who assists these distressed souls, so tenderly loved by God, may confidently hope for his salvation; for, when such a soul obtains deliverance through his prayers and good works, it incessantly prays for his salvation, and God will deny nothing to such a soul.”

Oración: We beseech Thee, O Lord! vouchsafe to hear the suffering souls, who supplicate Thee for their benefactors, that we, in union with these holy souls, for whom we offer fervent prayers upon earth, may praise Thy mercies forever. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que sufren por sus faltas contra la caridad.

Práctica: Da caridad a los demás sin esperar gratitud.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 24

VALUE OF WORKS OFFERED FOR THE SUFFERING SOULS

St. Thomas Aquinas, the Angelic Doctor, affirms that the succor and suffrage given to the departed are more acceptable to God than that which is bestowed upon the living, because the former are more in need and are unable to obtain help for themselves as the living can. The revered Louis Blosius, a great master of the spiritual life, says: “Our good and merciful Lord loves the souls of His elect, who must be purified after death, and desires their release so ardently, that whenever in Christian charity we set free, by our suffrages, any soul from Purgatory, we do a thing as acceptable to God as if we had delivered the Lord Himself from a hard captivity. He promises to give us as full a recompense as such a work of mercy practised towards Himself would deserve; for He Himself has said: “Amen, I say to you, as long as you did it to one of these, My least brethren, you did it to Me.” (Matth. xxv. 40.)

Lo mismo afirma San Ambrosio: "Todo lo que hagamos por las almas que sufren, con una intención piadosa, revertirá en nuestro propio mérito, y nos será devuelto cien veces más a la hora de la muerte."

Oración: O God of love and mercy! animated with charity and compassion for our departed brothers and sisters, we offer Thee our prayers and good works, and supplicate Thee to accept them as a propitiatory sacrifice in their behalf. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de aquellos que fueron negligentes en ofrecer buenas obras por las almas que sufren.

Práctica: Realiza un acto de mortificación por las almas del purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 23

WORKS OF PENANCE FOR THE HOLY SOULS

La Iglesia ha recomendado en todos los tiempos y los santos han recurrido siempre a las obras de penitencia como el mejor medio de obtener gracias extraordinarias de Dios, y no hay duda de que estas obras de mortificación tienen una gran eficacia para los difuntos. Aunque no se esperan de todos grandes obras de penitencia y mortificación, sin embargo, no hay nadie que no pueda negarse de vez en cuando una parte de algún plato favorito o alguna diversión, mortificar sus ojos, oídos o lengua, observar silencio por un corto tiempo, soportar con paciencia el dolor de la enfermedad, el calor o el frío, o cualquier otra adversidad, o refrenar su voluntad propia y sus malas inclinaciones; de hecho, soportar con sumisión y gratitud a Dios todo lo que causa dolor o angustia.

Tal caridad, amorosamente concedida a las santas almas de nuestros queridos difuntos, atraerá sobre nosotros ricas bendiciones y nos obtendrá fuerza para soportar nuestros propios sufrimientos.

“Know ye that the Lord will hear your prayers if you continue with perseverance in fastings and prayers, in the sight of the Lord.” (Judith iv. II.)

Oración: Grant us, O Lord! the grace to walk before Thee in penance and mortification, and in these works to remember the souls in Purgatory. Deign to accept what we in the spirit of charity offer for the comfort and relief of these penitent souls. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de aquellos que concedieron el mérito de sus mortificaciones a las almas santas.

Práctica: Realiza un acto de mortificación por las almas del purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 22

ALMS-GIVING AFFORDS GREAT RELIEF TO THE DEPARTED

Besides prayer and other acts of devotion, there are practical good works we can perform for the relief of the suffering souls, among which alms-giving is one of the most prominent; for this, being a work of mercy, is especially efficacious in obtaining mercy for the holy souls. Not the rich alone are able to give alms; the poor can do so as well; since it is not the value of the gift, but the good intention in which it is bestowed, that is acceptable in the sight of God. We also shall, one day, be numbered among the suffering souls, and who is in greater need and poverty than they? The most miserable beggar in this world can at least complain of his wants, and ask others to assist him; but the souls in Purgatory cannot do even this, for, the instances in which they are permitted to implore aid of the living are exceptional cases, and very few are on record. What consolation it will afford us when, in our own great time of need, the poor whom we befriended and comforted upon earth, in the company of the holy souls, whom we delivered by offering this work of mercy for them, shall come to our assistance by their prayers and pious supplications! Therefore, says Holy Scripture: “Do good to thy friend before thou die; and according to thy ability, stretching out thy hand, give to the poor.” (Eccl. xiv. 13.)

Oración: Lord! graciously look upon the alms we offer for the redemption of the captive souls in Purgatory. Bestow upon them the full merit thereof, that they may be able to discharge their debt; accept, we beseech Thee, this boon of charity, that delivered from debt and penalty, Thou mayest lead them into Thy heavenly kingdom. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de aquellos que en la tierra dieron limosna para el alivio de las almas sufrientes.

Práctica: Haz un regalo a un pobre y ofrece el mérito por las almas del purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 21

EFFICACY OF THE ROSARY FOR THE SUFFERING SOULS

St. Dominic declares that the redemption of the holy souls from Purgatory is one of the principal effects of the Rosary. The Venerable Alanus writes that many of the brethren had assured him that numerous souls had appeared to them whilst reciting the Rosary, and had declared that next to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass there was no more powerful means than the Rosary to help the suffering souls. Also, that numerous souls were daily released thereby, who otherwise would have been obliged to remain there for years. St. Alphonsus Liguori therefore says: “If we wish to be of material assistance to the souls in Purgatory, we must always recommend them in our prayers to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and especially offer the holy Rosary for them.”

Recemos, pues, con frecuencia y devoción el Rosario, tan grato a nuestra Santísima Madre, recomendado muy especialmente por la Santa Iglesia, que nos descubre una rica fuente de gracias y es tan eficaz para aliviar a las almas que sufren y abrirles el Cielo. Si nuestro trabajo nos impide rezar todos los días el Rosario completo, recémoslo, al menos, en parte. Este sencillo homenaje a la Reina del Cielo atraerá sobre nosotros grandes bendiciones, y las almas santas se sentirán maravillosamente consoladas y aliviadas, si se ofrece esta devoción en su favor.

Oración: Graciously hear, O Lord! the prayer we offer Thee in the holy Rosary in honor of Mary, Thy Virgin Mother, for the relief of the souls in Purgatory, while by devoutly meditating upon Thy holy life and suffering, we implore Thy Divine assistance. Who livest and reignest, world without end. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Rezad por las almas más devotas del Santo Rosario.

Práctica: Reza el Rosario por las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 20

LOVE OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN TOWARDS THE SOULS IN PURGATORY

Since our Divine Redeemer gave us Mary as our Mother, when, dying upon the cross, He spoke to His disciple, “Behold thy Mother,” the Blessed Virgin regards us all as her beloved children, but she harbors most tender feelings of maternal love towards the suffering souls in Purgatory. Let us then afford the Mother of love the satisfaction of giving abundant suffrages to the souls in Purgatory. Taking into consideration the great prerogatives of the Blessed Virgin, and the infinite love of the Holy Trinity towards her, we cannot doubt that by her merits and intercession every penitent suffering soul would be delivered, that Purgatory could be emptied at once, were such according to the inscrutable ways of God.

But God has His own designs founded on His infinite wisdom, justice and mercy. The Blessed Virgin does not pray to have all the suffering souls delivered at once, for her will is in perfect conformity to the Will of God, and she exercises her dominion over the souls in Purgatory in perfect union with this Divine Will.

St. Bernardine of Siena applies to Mary the text of Holy Writ, “I have walked in the waves of the sea,” (Eccl. xxiv. 8), and adds: “She descends into the sea of fire, quenching the flames for the suffering souls.” St. Dionysius the Carthusian attests that the souls in Purgatory experience the same joy and relief, at the mere mention of her name, that consoling words bring to the bedridden sick.

Oración: O most holy and glorious Virgin Mary, Blessed Mother of our Lord! we place our petitions for the suffering souls into thy hands. Cleanse them from all imperfections, and, by thy intercession, obtain for them eternal rest. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas más celosas en su devoción a la Santísima Virgen.

Práctica: Reza las letanías de la Santísima Virgen por las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 19

HOLY COMMUNION OF GREAT BENEFIT TO THE DEPARTED

The holy Doctor and Cardinal, St. Bonaventure, of the Order of St. Francis, who wrote much concerning the holy souls, urges especially frequent Communion in their behalf. “Let the love and compassion for your neighbor,” so he writes, “lead you to the Holy Table, for nothing is so well calculated to obtain eternal rest for the holy souls.” This is confirmed by the following example: Louis Blosius relates that a pious servant of God, in a vision, beheld a departed friend wrapped in flames, and learned from him that he suffered terribly, because he had received Our Lord in Holy Communion with but little preparation. “Therefore,” added this departed friend, “I beg of you, for the love we bore each other, to communicate for the benefit of my soul, but to do so with great preparation and fervor; I then hope certainly to be released from the terrible sufferings that I indeed well deserved for my negligence towards the Blessed Sacrament.” The friend at once complied with the request, and having received Holy Communion with due preparation, he saw the same soul enveloped in light, winging its happy flight to Heaven, to behold face to face the King of eternal glory.

Oración: O Lord Jesus Christ, Who in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar hast given us Thine own flesh and blood for the nourishment of our souls, and a pledge of our own future resurrection, grant us the grace always to receive worthily this Most Holy Mystery, that it may be to us and the souls in Purgatory a source of salvation. Who livest and reignest, world without end. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que fueron negligentes en su preparación para la Santa Comunión.

Práctica: Reciban la Sagrada Comunión por el alivio de las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 18

THE EFFICACY OF HOLY MASS FOR THE DEPARTED

The Sacrifice of the Mass is the great devotion of the Catholic Church, and of all means to assist the souls in Purgatory, none is more valuable or meritorious; for there Jesus Christ offers Himself and His infinite merits to His Heavenly Father, by the hands of the Priest, in behalf of the suffering souls. The unbloody Sacrifice of the Mass does not essentially differ from the Sacrifice of the Cross, but only accidently as to the mode of oblation, and no limit can be placed to the effect of this great Sacrifice, which contains in itself all grace.
De esta inestimable eficacia, sin embargo, no podemos inferir que la ofrenda de una misa sea suficiente para liberar a las almas que amamos; porque, aunque el Sacrificio en el Calvario fue infinito, no podemos concluir que el aplicación of it, through the Mass, must also be infinite. St. Thomas Aquinas tells us, it was not the intention of Jesus Christ to bestow the full efficacy of His suffering and death, which is commemorated in every Mass, upon us; His merits are applied according to His Adorable Will, for the ways of God are often inscrutable.
It is very salutary, therefore, to have the Holy Sacrifice offered frequently for the repose of a soul. Should the souls who are dear to us, for whom we intercede in this manner, be already in the enjoyment of eternal bliss, Divine Wisdom and Goodness will bestow the merit of the Masses offered on other suffering souls.

Oración: O Lord Jesus Christ, Who didst institute the unbloody Sacrifice of the Mass in commemoration of Thy Sacrifice upon the Cross, we beseech Thee, bestow the merits of this Holy Sacrifice upon the souls in Purgatory, that they may soon be released from their pains. Who livest and reignest, world without end. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Rezad por las almas de los más celosos asistentes a misa.

Práctica: Asistir a misa por el alivio de las almas sufrientes.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 17

THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CHURCH BESTOWS INDULGENCES UPON THE SOULS IN PURGATORY

The Church does not apply indulgences to the souls in Purgatory as she does to the faithful upon earth, by the tribunal of penance and absolution, but confers them simply by pious supplications and sacrifices offered in their behalf; thus they are relieved indirectly. The Holy Church opens her rich treasures of merit and satisfaction in proportion to the suffrages of the faithful, offering expiation and fervent prayers to God for the relief of the suffering souls, according to the value of the indulgences gained in their behalf.

God has reserved to Himself the right to accept entirely, or in part, the satisfaction offered for any soul in Purgatory. This acceptance depends upon His holy and adorable Will, and perhaps, in great measure upon the care of the soul to render herself worthy of the Divine assistance during her earthly career. Besides, there may be some obligations neglected by the person who intends to gain the indulgence, owing to ignorance or forgetfulness on his part. Therefore, we have no assurance whatever that an indulgence given by us to the holy souls has had the desired effect. Considering this, we should prepare most carefully, and fulfill all obligations required for gaining an indulgence. However, let us place, with entire confidence, the application of indulgences to departed souls especially dear to us, into the tender hand of Divine mercy.

Oración: Have mercy, O Lord, upon the suffering souls in Purgatory; mitigate the severity of Thy judgments; let the infinite merits of Thine only-begotten Son, and those of Thy saints, assist the holy souls, and deliver them from their sufferings. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Rezad por las almas de los que no ganaron indulgencias para las almas del purgatorio.

Práctica: Ofrece todas las indulgencias que puedas ganar hoy por las almas del Purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 16

THE EFFICACY OF PRAYER FOR THE SUFFERING SOULS

“It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from their sins.” (2 Mach. xii. 46)

Rezar por los muertos es santoporque agrada a Dios; saludable, because, through the merciful goodness of God it accomplishes its sublime and charitable object. Nothing is so pleasing to God as the sacrifice of love and mercy, especially when offered for the suffering souls, whom He loves most tenderly, because they are holy and sure of Heaven.

Para aliviar a las almas que sufren no podemos hacer nada más saludable que ganar indulgencias aplicables a ellas, ofreciendo a Dios la perfecta satisfacción de Cristo y de los santos, y realizando buenas obras en su favor, para que sean consoladas o liberadas de las penas del Purgatorio.

Un alma que sufre puede recibir una remisión total o temporal de su pena, de acuerdo con la indulgencia aplicada, ya sea plenaria o parcial.

Oración: Open, O Lord! the rich treasures of Thy holy Church, in favor of the souls in Purgatory that they may receive full pardon, or, at least some relief in their pains; and grant us grace to deliver and to comfort a great number of suffering souls by prayer and good works. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Rezad por las almas que, durante su carrera terrena, se esforzaron por ganar muchas indulgencias para los fieles difuntos.

Práctica: Aplica todas las indulgencias que puedas ganar a las almas del purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 15

STATE OF GRACE NECESSARY TO ASSIST THE SOULS IN PURGATORY

Holy Church teaches us that the state of grace is necessary to perform good works, acceptable to God and of merit to the souls in Purgatory. There are some good works, the value of which does not depend upon the spiritual condition of the one who offers them. A person who may be, unfortunately, in the state of mortal sin, can have Masses said for the faithful departed. He himself will acquire no merit thereby, but the suffering souls will derive the full benefit of the Holy Sacrifice. In all other good works offered for them, the state of sanctifying grace is requisite.
“He that abideth in Me,” says Christ, “and I in him, the same beareth much fruit, for without Me you can do nothing.” If, then, we are incapable of gaining merit for ourselves, how can we expect to benefit others? St. Francis Xavier says: “Before being intent upon delivering souls from Purgatory, take heed to redeem your own souls from hell;” and here we may add the word of the Lord spoken by His prophet: “Wash yourselves, be clean, take away the evil of your devices from my eyes: cease to do perversely.” (Isaiah i. 16.)

Oración: Grant us the grace, O Lord! to avoid sin at all times, and confirm us in Thy charity, that, by Thy bounty, our supplications for the suffering souls may be acceptable to Thee, and beneficial to them. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de aquellos que tuvieron cuidado de no perder nunca la gracia de Dios.

Práctica: Haz un acto de contrición perfecta.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 14

SPECIAL DUTY OF CHILDREN TOWARDS THEIR DECEASED PARENTS

“Honor thy father, and forget not the groanings of thy mother. Remember that thou hadst not been born but through them, and make a return to them: as they have done for thee.” (Eccl. vii. 29-30.) Next to God, our parents are our greatest benefactors, entitled to most tender love and gratitude, which is the sacred duty of every child. This duty does not end with this life; it is extended even to eternity. Should our departed parents find no relief in their pains? Must they cry out in bitter anguish: “I have reared sons and daughters, but they have forgotten me?”
If we compassionate the misery of strangers, if we do not heartlessly send a beggar from our doors, oh, let us remember how near and dear father and mother are to us, and how greatly we are indebted to them. After their death, we owe them prayers, alms, good works, and Masses. They cry out to us for mercy. Would it not be the highest degree of ingratitude were we to forget those who bestowed their best love and care upon us in life? The commandment of God, “Honor thy father and thy mother,” is an obligation also towards our deceased parents.

Oración: O God, Who hast commanded us to honor father and mother, look in loving kindness upon the souls of my father and mother, and forgive them their trespasses and grant unto me the joy of being reunited to them in the glorious light of everlasting life. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de los padres que han sido olvidados por sus hijos.

Práctica: Mortifícate mediante un acto de obediencia.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 13

THE SPECIAL DUTY OF EVERYONE TO AID THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED

Besides the general duty imposed upon us by the divine law of charity, there is a special obligation incumbent upon everyone to assist particular souls. This duty devolves upon us in consequence of the personal relations with such souls during their earthly career; for whatever be the condition of man in life, he will have among the souls departed, who may be suffering in Purgatory, some to whom he is indebted for particular favors and benefits.

But what could more forcibly elicit our charity and gratitude than to behold our loved ones and our benefactors in extreme distress, while we have the means of alleviating their suffering! That person does not possess a spark of Christian charity, who, from neglect or indolence, suffers the souls of his friends to be tormented in the flames of Purgatory.

Oración: Revive, O Lord, within the hearts of Thy faithful, an active commiseration for the brethren gone before us, that they may not, by our indifference or neglect, suffer without relief and assistance. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de aquellos que son abandonados por sus familiares y amigos.

Práctica: Da limosna para aliviar a las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 12

GRAND DISPLAY IS OF NO VALUE TO THE HOLY SOULS

In regard to pompous displays for the departed, St. Augustine says: “Costly funerals and expensive displays may afford the living some consolation, but are of no benefit to the departed.” He adds, however: “Let care be bestowed upon funerals and the erection of monuments; for Holy Writ reckons these among good works. Let all perform these last services for their departed, and thereby relieve their own sorrow; but let them show greater zeal, care, and generosity in succoring the souls of the departed by Masses, prayers, and alms, and thus give evidence not only of a temporal, but also a spiritual love for those who are departed in body only, but not in spirit. According to a rule of the Church, flowers should be used at funerals of children only; circumstances may at times justify a deviation from this rule, but, at all events, it is unpardonable if the expense connected with this display deprives the soul departed of any spiritual assistance.

Oración: We beseech Thee, O Lord, by Thy infinite mercy, do not despise our prayers in behalf of the souls in Purgatory, but grant them the peace and consolation we desire for them. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de aquellos que sólo fueron recordados por un pomposo funeral, y no tienen alivio en su dolor.

Práctica: Acompañar el funeral de una persona pobre, a la primera oportunidad.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 11

OUR DUTY TO RELIEVE THE SOULS IN PURGATORY

In bestowing charity upon any person, we are usually guided by the degree of his poverty; but who is in such great need as he who possesses absolutely nothing, owes a heavy debt, is unable to labor or gain any merit, or even to beg, and must nevertheless suffer the most excruciating torments until the last farthing has been paid? There is a universal law to assist the needy, which extends even to strangers; but here the obligation is greatest, because among these souls in Purgatory, are such as were intimately connected with us, who suffer, perhaps, for having loved us excessively. Among the sufferers are our fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, relatives, and friends. How exceedingly painful for them to be forgotten and deserted even by those whose happiness they promoted during their sojourn on earth; to see the possessions left to their children foolishly squandered, they themselves not receiving the benefit of the least farthing thereof. What proofs of extreme coldness and ingratitude! Were any of these persons afflicted with the least pain upon earth, we would do all in our power to relieve them, but, as it is, we are devoid of all sympathy, and leave them in their terrible suffering and anguish.

Oración: Have mercy, O Lord, upon the suffering souls in Purgatory, and mitigate the severity of Thy judgment, that they, who, during their earthly lives believed in Thee, hoped in Thee, and loved Thee, may receive the crown of justice in Heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de los que sufren por su negligencia en rezar por las almas del purgatorio.

Práctica: Sufre con paciencia los sucesos desagradables en tu trato con los demás.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 10

THE DURATION OF PURGATORY

Concerning the duration of Purgatory, the Church simply tells us that it is not a place of eternal pain, but will end at the last judgment; neither are we informed of the length of time required for the purification of a soul. According to St. Thomas Aquinas, the soul, to be reunited to her Creator in Heaven, must be in the state of primitive innocence which adorned her when she proceeded from His hand. The image of God must be entirely restored within her, commensurate to the degree of glory awaiting her in Heaven.

From this it is evident that the suffering souls cannot enter Heaven until perfectly cleansed, either by their pains or by the suffrages of the faithful. With the royal Prophet they cry out in plaintive voice: “As the hart panteth after the fountains of water, so my soul panteth after Thee, O God! When shall I come and appear before the face of God?” (Ps. xli. 2-3.) They suffer until entirely purified, until the last farthing of their debt is discharged. Increased and intensified pain will probably supply the want of time for the souls who shall not have rendered full satisfaction by the last day of universal judgment.

Oración: O God, the Dispenser of pardon, and Friend of human salvation, we implore Thee, by the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all Thy saints, grant to the souls of our brethren, relatives, benefactors, and all the faithful departed, the joys of eternal bliss. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que más desean obtener tu ayuda.

Práctica: Mortifique su curiosidad.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 9

PAIN OF FIRE IN PURGATORY

The Church has given no decision regarding the word “fire” in relation to Purgatory; but according to Theologians and Doctors of the Church, we are to understand a material fire. Concerning this, Bishop Colmar of Mayence, a great friend of the holy souls, writes: “Besides being deprived of the vision of God, the souls in Purgatory must also endure the tortures of a fire, the effects of which are so much more painful, as it is an instrument in the avenging hand of God”; a fire, as St. Augustine says, in comparison to which our material fire is as nothing; a fire that entirely penetrates the soul, in whatever manner this may be accomplished.

How, and to what extent this is done, we know not, but may draw our conclusion from similar instances. “In like manner,” says St. Gregory the Great, “as the fallen angels, although pure spirits, are tormented by the material fire of hell, so may a similar fire torture the souls of the departed in Purgatory.” The justice of God can punish a spirit by means of a material substance, as well as He can, in His omnipotence, give life to a body by the agency of a spirit. According to the holy Fathers, the fire of Purgatory does not differ from the fire of hell, excepting in point of duration. “It is the same fire,” says St. Thomas, “that torments the reprobates in hell, and the just in Purgatory. The least pain in Purgatory,” he adds, “surpasses the greatest sufferings of this life.” Nothing but eternal duration makes the fire of hell more terrible than that of Purgatory.

Oración: Refresh, O Lord, the suffering souls in Purgatory, with the dew of Thy grace, that their pains may be relieved, and, in Thy mercy, hasten the moment of their deliverance, that they may meet Thee in Heaven, where no fire but that of Thy holy love shall consume them. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por todas las almas del purgatorio, en particular por las que están olvidadas por sus familiares.

Práctica: Esfuérzate por difundir lo más posible la devoción por las santas almas del purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 8

PAIN OF HELPLESSNESS AND DESOLATION

The souls in Purgatory have entered into the realm of Divine Justice. The penance and satisfaction due for their faults must be made, either by the pain of Purgatory itself, or by the suffrages of the faithful, consisting in prayer, good works, and the spiritual treasure of indulgences bestowed upon them; for the suffering souls can no longer merit, and are entirely unable to assist themselves. A sick man and a beggar have a tongue to ask for help, and the very sight of their misery will move others to compassion. The suffering souls, however, have no resource but that of patience, resignation, and hope. To all their moans there is but one answer, “the night hath come, in which no man can work.”

Hence in their extreme desolation and distress, they incessantly cry out to us for relief and assistance; but since they cannot do this in a manner perceptible to us, holy Church does it for them by instituting many touching devotions in their behalf. Can we, then, be cold and heartless towards these souls? “A hard heart will fare evil at the last.” Be not, then, indifferent to your own interests.

Oración: Have mercy, O Lord, upon the suffering souls in Purgatory, in their helplessness and desolation. Comfort them by the prayers and petitions of the angels and the just in Heaven and upon earth; shorten the time of their suffering, and reward them with joys eternal. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas más abandonadas y desamparadas.

Práctica: Niégate a ti mismo un poco de consuelo, o algún consuelo especial, y ofrécelo por las almas más desamparadas del Purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 7

PAIN OF SORROW FOR SIN

The soul departed, before the judgment seat of God, is enlightened with a perfect knowledge of the purity and sanctity of her Divine Judge, clearly perceiving the stains with which she is sullied, and her extreme unworthiness of union with God. The thought: I have offended God, Who is eternal beauty and perfection; I am not yet worthy to appear before the face of the Lord, Who is infinitely holy, not worthy to take possession of my dwelling place in Heaven — is the greatest sorrow of the suffering souls. Much more clearly than during their earthly lives do these holy souls comprehend the perfections of God, and love Him above all things; therefore, the thought of having offended Him is a piercing sorrow which surpasses all their other sufferings.

St. Ambrose tells us, there is no greater agony than remorse of conscience caused by sin. There are examples on record, of men who died from the effects of this vehement sorrow. Yet, how much more intense must be the contrition of the suffering souls, who fully understand the great malice of sin! We know by our own experience that the depth of sorrow for having offended a person is equal to the love we bear him. The holy souls in Purgatory, being inflamed with a perfect love of God, their perfect contrition for sin is their greatest sorrow.

Oración: O God, Father of grace and mercy! graciously regard the deep sorrow of the suffering souls in Purgatory. Deign to accept their love, and grant them remission of their punishment, that, united with Thee, they may praise Thy goodness forever. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que, mientras estuvieron en la tierra, amaron más ardientemente a Dios.

Práctica: Intenta hacer un acto de contrición perfecta por tus pecados.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 6

THE PAIN OF LOSS

The spiritual suffering, or the pain of loss, is the greatest pain of Purgatory, according to the Fathers of the Church. No one can comprehend the great suffering of a soul departed, which, in all its ardent desire for the highest and only good, sees itself ever repulsed as an object of God’s avenging justice.

St. Alphonsus writes: “Far greater than the pain of sense in Purgatory is that pain which the holy souls must endure in being deprived of the vision of God. Because these souls are inflamed, not only with a natural, but with a supernatural love of God, they are so vehemently attracted to union with their highest good, that in being repulsed through their own fault, they experience so violent a pain that it would kill them instantly if death were possible to them.” “Therefore,” says St. Chrysostom, “this pain of being deprived of God is far greater pain for them than the pain of the senses. The fire of Hell increased a thousand times would not cause them such great suffering as does this pain of the loss of God.”

Oración: O God, Father of Mercies, grant the ardent desire of the souls in Purgatory who yearn to behold Thee. Send down to them Thy holy angel with the joyful tidings that the moment of their deliverance has come, that their exile is ended, and bless them by the perfect union with Thee forever. Through Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas castigadas por el olvido de la santa Presencia de Dios durante su vida.

Práctica: Trata de recordar en todo momento la santa Presencia de Dios.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 5

THE SUFFERINGS OF PURGATORY

The sufferings of Purgatory are twofold: the pain of loss, and the torture of the senses; both in proportion to temporal punishment unremitted. Having committed sin, the soul has turned away from God, thus increasing the pain of loss, or according to our ideas, God departs from that soul and deprives her of His beatific vision. By sin, the soul has been attached to creatures, making improper use of them, displeasing to God, hence the severe punishment, consisting in the pain of the senses. God permits that those who have abandoned their Creator, and bestowed their affections upon creatures, are chastised by the same, for we read in the Book of Wisdom: “By what things a man sinneth, by the same also is he tormented.” (Wis. xi. 17)

God has not revealed, nor has the Church ever taught in what manner or to what extent the souls in Purgatory suffer, but it is the opinion of the holy Fathers and Doctors of the Church that, what St. Paul writes to the Corinthians, (1, iii. 15), “But he himself shall be saved: yet so as by fire,” must be taken in a literal sense, which is accepted also by St. Thomas Aquinas.

Oración: O Lord, by Thine infinite love and clemency, graciously grant to the suffering souls in Purgatory remittance of their punishment. Receive them into Thy eternal glory, that blessed by Thy beatific vision, they may praise and adore Thee forever and ever. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de los que más tiempo llevan en el Purgatorio.

Práctica: No dejes que el respeto humano te impida cumplir con un deber.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 4

EXPIATION FOR VENIAL SINS AND IMPERFECTIONS

The judgments of God are very different from the judgments of men. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts: nor your ways My ways,” saith the Lord. “For as the heavens are exalted above the earth, so are My ways exalted above your ways, and My thoughts above your thoughts.” (Is. lv. 8-9.) Though the judgments of God are severe, they are ever just. “Unto whomsoever much is given, of him much shall be required.” (Luke xii. 48.) And St. Gregory the Great says: “Where grace has been augmented, there, also, the account has been increased.” From those souls, upon whom God has bestowed great and special graces, He demands a faithful cooperation, and the least infidelity to such grace is punished with extreme severity: the purgation or cleansing of these favored souls must be perfect in proportion to the high degree of glory to which they are to be exalted. In reference to prayer for the suffering souls, who are in Purgatory for venial sins and imperfections, we must observe that, though their time of suffering is comparatively short, and their punishment less rigorous, their pain and agony is more intense, owing to their yearning desire of perfect union with God. They are in utmost need of our fervent prayers, and will show their gratitude by their petitions for us before the throne of God, according to the speedy assistance we have given them during our earthly lives.

Oración: Inflame within us, O Lord, the fire of Thy Divine Love, that all our inordinate desires may be consumed here upon earth, thus rendering our prayers for the suffering souls in Purgatory more acceptable to Thee and beneficial to them. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas que están más cerca de su liberación.

Práctica: Mortifica tu debilidad o inclinación predominante.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 3

THE DOCTRINE OF PURGATORY

The destiny awaiting us at death is not the same for all men: “He will render to every man according to his works.” (Matth, xvi. 27). Heaven, Hell and Purgatory are the three places into which the souls of the departed are received. Heaven is the happy destination of perfectly pure and holy souls only; Hell, the final doom of the reprobate; Purgatory, temporarily for the just, who are not, as yet, entirely purified. There God completes the punishment due to their faults, which were not sufficiently atoned for on earth; there He submits these holy souls to the last purgation, to cleanse them from the least stain, and, by fire, to bring them to that degree of perfected purity, which is necessary for them before being admitted to eternal bliss.

Hence there are two classes of souls in Purgatory:
1. Those who depart this life, stained by venial sins and imperfections.
2. Those who have repented, and if possible, confessed their mortal sins without, however, having done sufficient penance for them.
Judging from our lives, experience teaches us that most men deserve Purgatory for both causes.

Oración: Graciously hear, O Lord, the fervent prayers we offer Thee for the suffering souls in Purgatory, who, not being able to satisfy Thy divine justice, confide in Thine infinite mercy and our intercessions. Extend unto them Thy consolations, and redeem them, through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de los que sufren en el Purgatorio por pequeñas faltas.

Práctica: Sé concienzudo y fiel en el cumplimiento de los pequeños deberes y ofrece las molestias por las almas que sufren.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 2

COMMEMORATION OF “ALL SOULS”

The commemoration of “All-Souls” was instituted by the Church as a day of special prayer for all the faithful departed who are as yet deprived of the blissful contemplation of God, and the possession of Heaven. These holy souls endure most agonizing torments, and count the lingering moments of time, while awaiting release from prison, or, at least, some relief in their intense pain. They have special confidence in their friends and relatives upon earth, hoping to be lovingly cherished in their memory, and aided by their fervent prayers. With holy Job they cry out: “Have pity on me, have pity on me, at least you, my friends, because the hand of the Lord hath touched me.” (Job xix. 21.)

The anniversary of All Souls should serve to revive and confirm our devotion in behalf of the suffering souls in Purgatory, and induce us to make ample amends for our neglect of this duty during the year. “A gift hath grace in the sight of all the living, and restrain not grace from the dead.” (Eccl. vii. 37.)

Oración: O God, Creator and Redeemer of all the faithful, grant to the souls of Thy servants pardon of all their sins, that by pious supplications they may graciously obtain the remission they have always desired, Thou Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por las almas de los que sufren los mayores tormentos.

Práctica: Examina con qué frecuencia y de qué manera has practicado durante el año la oración por las almas del purgatorio.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)

DAY 1

PRAYERS FOR THE HOLY SOULS

One of the most consoling doctrines of the Catholic Church is that of the Communion of Saints. All men – the saints in Heaven, we upon earth, the souls in Purgatory – are members of one great family. By this “bond of perfection” which unites the Suffering and Triumphant Church with the Militant Church upon earth, incorporating them into one body, mutual charity becomes an obligation. This reciprocal love, being the duty of all men, renders it imperative that all should pray for one another, for in this general prayer, offered mutually, Christian charity is most beautifully and eloquently expressed.

From this general obligation we derive the special duty to pray for the suffering souls in Purgatory, who are unable in their extreme distress to do aught for their own relief. It has always been the belief of Holy Church that the faithful, united in the Communion of Saints, can mutually assist each other. As the saints in Heaven pray for us, so must we also offer our petitions for the suffering souls in Purgatory, that God in His goodness and mercy, may mitigate and shorten their punishment, and hasten their entrance into Heaven. It is the doctrine of the Church that the faithful upon earth are really able to relieve the temporal punishment of the holy souls in Purgatory. “In this,” says the Roman Catechism, “the supreme mercy and goodness of God deserve our grateful acknowledgement and praise, that He has granted to our frailty the privilege that one may satisfy for another.”

Oración: O Lord Jesus Christ, Thou Who hast said, “Where there are two or three gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them,” (Matth. xviii. 20) look mercifully upon Thy holy Church, who implores Thy clemency in behalf of her suffering members. End their intense pain, and open unto them the portals of the heavenly Jerusalem, that they may praise and bless Thee forever and ever. Amen.

Intercesión especial: Reza por aquellos que, en el curso de su vida terrena, más hicieron por aliviar a las almas del Purgatorio.

Eternal rest grant them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them; may they rest in peace. Amen.
(Say three times; 300 days’ Indulgence to all who recite this prayer three times every day.)

Práctica: Asistir a la devoción pública por las almas sufrientes.

Invocación: ¡Jesús mío, misericordia!
(300 días de indulgencia cada vez por las almas del purgatorio. Pío X.)