Love Beyond Death: The Power of Prayer

The Catholic Church observes November as a month dedicated to praying for the deceased.

On November 1, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints to honor those in heaven, including canonized saints and all who have been made holy through God's grace. On November 2, the Church observes the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, also known as All Souls Day. This day is a specific time to pray for those who have died and may require purification before entering heaven.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, those who die in God's grace but are not yet perfectly purified undergo a final purification in Purgatory. The practice of praying for the dead finds a biblical foundation in 2 Maccabees 12:44-46.