Praying for the dead

Question 1

What are 3 details about praying for the dead?

Answer 1

• Catholics believe that the most important action that can be done for someone who has passed away is to pray for them, so if their soul has gone to purgatory then it may pass through there quickly to reach Heaven with God.
• The prayers benefit the souls of the person who has passed away but also those who are living as it unites the members of the Church - both living and dead - to each other and to God
• The Catholic Church celebrates All Souls’ Day with masses on 2nd November. It is for all those who have died and not yet reached Heaven.

Question 2

What are 2 pieces of evidence about praying for the dead?

Answer 2

“Eternal rest grant upon them O Lord” - Eternal Rest prayer

“Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death” - The Hail Mary prayer.

Question 3

How does praying for the dead change a Catholic’s life?

Answer 3

• Catholics will pray for their loved one as a sign of love and respect for them and to keep their memory alive.
• Catholics will attend memorial masses for their loved ones who have died where they will continue to offer prayers for their souls in the hope that they are in peace with God.