The Blessed Souls of purgatory

2 Macc 12:43-45

Judas Maccabee took a collection from them individually, amounting to nearly two thousand drachmas, and sent it to Jerusalem to have a sacrifice for sin offered, an action altogether fine and noble, prompted by his belief in the resurrection. For had he not expected the fallen to rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead, whereas if he had in view the splendid recompense reserved for those who make a pious end, the thought was holy and devout. Hence, he had this expiatory sacrifice offered for the dead, so that they might be released from their sin. Read More

EVEN THE LIONS CRY OUT TO GOD

494th Meditation

“The young lions roar for their prey, seeking their food from God” (Ps 104:21).

God’s love and care extends to all of His irrational creation. This must have prompted a St. Francis of Assisi to include all the elements in the brotherhood of creatures in his famous canticle. All that our Father has created finds its deepest meaning in Him and bears witness to Him, even though, as a result of sin, the original harmony has been disturbed and death has entered this world. Read More