Why do Catholics Pray for the Dead?

On November 2, Catholics observe the Feast of All Souls. This is a day to remember our beloved dead and pray for them. At our parish, there is a table where parishioners can display photographs of their deceased loved ones. It is there for most of the month of November.

But why do Catholics pray for the dead? For many of us cradle Catholics, this is a very natural practice. But for non-Catholics this can seem strange and pointless. After all, our beloved dead are in God’s hands.

But Catholics believe in Purgatory, which is a state of purification. And our prayers are an expression of our trust in God’s mercy.

Read the full article for more details about this practice.