For all the Holy Souls, especially those who suffer most

From the Novena for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Sacred Scripture: 2 Maccabees 12:46

Meditation for Day 1

St. Alphonsus Liguori teaches that the holy souls endure their purification mindful that their own sins brought it about — a grief made bearable only by the certainty of God's mercy. Scripture reminds us that it is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from their sins (2 Macc 12:46). As we begin this novena, we offer our prayers especially for those souls suffering most intensely, uniting our intercession to the merits of Christ's Passion. Let us also reflect on our own need for God's merciful patience, and resolve to seek purity of heart while we still have time.

Daily Novena Prayer (recited every day)

Closing Prayer

O God, the author of mercy, the lover of the salvation of mankind; we address thy clemency, in behalf of our brethren, relations, and benefactors, who are departed this life, that by the intercession of blessed Mary, ever virgin, and of all the saints, thou wouldst receive them into the enjoyment of eternal happiness; through Christ our Lord. Amen.