Purgatory

The Latest

A memento mori at the Teutonic Cemetery in the Vatican

Why do Catholics pray for the dead? — and other questions about purgatory answered

Nov 2, 2022

By Hannah Brockhaus

On All Souls’ Day, the Catholic Church remembers all those who have died and prays for them in a particular... Read more

The baroque fresco of St. Nicholas of Tolentino by Morazzone, 16th century, in the side nave of Chiesa di San Agostino (Basilica of St. Augustine) in Rome.

Why this saint is the patron of souls in purgatory

Sep 10, 2022

By Jonah McKeown

For St. Nicholas of Tolentino, the Catholic imperative to pray for the dead was made very real to him. Read more

"Memento Mori: An Advent Companion on the Last Things,” by Sr. Theresa Aletheia

Why Catholics should contemplate the four last things during Advent

Dec 20, 2021

By Katie Yoder

Catholics should contemplate death in preparation for Baby Jesus’ birth, according to Sr. Danielle Victoria. Read more

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Have souls in Purgatory visited people on earth?

Nov 2, 2021

By Hannah Brockhaus

Nestled in Rome just outside the Vatican, a small unassuming museum dedicated to the souls in Purgatory displays simple items... Read more

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Should Catholics talk to their dead loved ones? 

Nov 1, 2021

By Mary Farrow

Catholics should proceed with caution when “communicating” with the dead, two Catholic psychologists told CNA, and they should ground their... Read more

Vatican official highlights confession on All Saints, All Souls Day

Oct 31, 2019

It is fitting for Catholics to go to confession on All Saints Day and All Souls Day, and to pray... Read more

Catacombs of Paris, France. Photo: Travis Grossen via Unsplash.

Dead Theologians Society: The ‘memento mori’ youth group

Oct 28, 2019

By Mary Farrow

The incredible story of the Dead Theologians Society.  Read more

Memento mori - How religious orders remember death

Oct 30, 2017

By Mary Farrow

There’s an old Latin phrase that’s suddenly new again - at least in the realm of Catholic Twitter™. The resurgence... Read more