EXPIATION FOR VENIAL SINS
AND IMPERFECTIONS
The judgments of God are very different
from the judgments of men. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts:
nor your ways My ways," saith the Lord. "For as the heavens are
exalted above the earth, so are My ways exalted above your ways, and My
thoughts above your thoughts." (Is. lv.8-9) Though the judgments of God
are severe, they are
ever just. "Unto whomsoever much is given, of him much shall be required."
(Luke
xii. 48) And St. Gregory the Great says: "Where grace has been augmented,
there, also, the account has been increased." From those souls, upon whom
God has bestowed great and special graces, He demands a faithful cooperation, and
the least infidelity to such grace is punished with extreme severity: the purgation
or cleansing of these favored souls must be perfect in proportion to the high degree
of glory to which they are to be exalted. In reference to prayer for the suffering
souls, who are in Purgatory for venial sins and imperfections, we must observe that,
though their time of suffering is comparatively short, and their punishment
less rigorous, their pain and agony is more intense, owing to their yearning
desire of perfect union with God. They are in utmost need of our fervent
prayers, and will show their gratitude by their petitions for us before the
throne of God, according to the speedy assistance we have given them during our
earthly lives.
Prayer
Inflame within us, O Lord, the fire of Thy Divine Love, that all our in
ordinate desires may be consumed here upon earth, thus rendering our prayers
for the suffering souls in Purgatory more acceptable to Thee and beneficial to
them. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Pray for the souls of those who have suffered for the longest time in
Purgatory.
Lord grant them eternal rest, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen. (Three times)
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