“If people knew what power the dear poor souls have over God’s heart, and if they knew what graces can be obtained through their intercession, they would not be so forgotten. We must pray much for them so that they may pray much for us.” (Saint John Vianney, Curé of Ars)
Let us remember those who are still in Purgatory and long for God, having deeply repented of their sins. They await our prayers and expressions of love, as these help them. They can no longer do anything for themselves, but our Father accepts every prayer and good deed as an act of atonement on their behalf. This is part of the mystery of the Church’s communion.
The Curé of Ars was a man who lived very closely with God and had profound insights into God’s way with humanity. Thus, he knew of God’s love for those who, after death, must still wait to behold God. Yet they are not entirely inactive, as they can also pray for us. Let us imagine a painful situation that we are unable to change on our own. Now let us imagine it even more clearly in relation to the Poor Souls: their burning longing for God! And now, a believer thinks of them and does what he can for them. This helps to shorten their time of purification and fulfil their longing for God.
Wouldn’t I do everything in my power to help the one who helped me on my journey to God?
The same applies when we intercede for our brothers and sisters as they are purified after death. The Saint wants to draw our attention to this act of love for them. How easily we can thus make friends in heaven who will pray for us, so that we may reach our goal and worship our Father alongside them!