PURGATORY
Purgatory Here are Meaning, Scriptural and Theological Foundations, history, and significance of Purgatory in Roman Catholic Theology. Meaning of Purgatory In Roman Catholic teaching, Purgatory is understood as a temporary state of purification for those who die in God’s grace but are still in need of final cleansing from the effects of sin before entering Heaven (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1993, §1030–1031). It is not a “second chance” at salvation ; rather, it is the continuation of the sanctification that began during earthly life (Ratzinger, 1988). This belief is grounded in the conviction that no one can enter Heaven unless they are perfectly purified (Revelation 21:27). Scriptural and Theological Foundations of Purgatory Although the term Purgatory does not appear directly in Sacred Scripture , the concept is supported by several biblical passages and Sacred traditions . Prayer for the dead in (2 Maccabees 12:38–46) implies that prayers can assist the deceased, sugg...