All Things Catholic with Dr. Edward Sri Why Catholics Believe in Purgatory—and Why It's Good News
Nov 4, 2025
Purgatory is misunderstood; it's not punishment but a divine love that purifies. Delve into the biblical significance of fire as God's presence, offering healing rather than wrath. Explore scriptural hints about postmortem purification. Discover the transformative ideas of St. John of the Cross and how souls can resist this love due to attachments. Edward Sri emphasizes that purification, though sometimes painful, is essential for spiritual growth and is better embraced sooner rather than later.
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Common Purgatory Misconceptions
- Purgatory is often misunderstood as a middle zone or divine punishment.
- Edward Sri says that's not the Catholic view and rejects the idea of God baking souls in wrathful fire.
Fire As God's Loving Presence
- Biblical fire often symbolizes God's holy presence and loving closeness.
- Edward Sri links scriptural images (burning bush, pillar of fire, Pentecost) to purifying love.
Purgatory's Fire Is Purifying
- The Catechism calls purgatory's fire purifying and cleansing.
- Edward Sri emphasizes God loves us and heals rather than punishes in purgatory.
