Purgatory's Significant Role Within The Teachings Of Christianity

Characterized as a transitionary period for the soul between the mortal realm and Paradise, the prominent albeit controversial concept of purgatory has taken on its own significant role within the teachings of Christianity. Although only formally declared in the year 1215, elements of the purgatorial doctrine can be traced back to numerous myths of purifying fires burning in the afterlife, many of which were fairly common in biblical antiquity. As it is temporary in nature, purgatory itself is not viewed as an eternal station or place in the same way that Heaven and Hell are, but rather as a transitional process of spiritual cleansing that one must pass through before reaching their final destination in the afterlife. Ultimately, by analyzing

It is this heavy focus on individuality and the unique self that cultivates an overall lack of empathy amongst mankind, thus it becomes fairly easy for an individual to detach themselves from the broken community and rationalize their own apathetic and sinful behaviors. However, while many of these sins are forgiven by the time of death, there remains spiritual liabilities that prevent incomplete souls from gaining entrance into the Gates of Heaven. That is, only when one is unblemished and spiritually pure are they granted presence with the Heavenly Father, as nothing marred by shortcomings may stand among God. While the immediate guilt of one’s sins can be forgiven and absolved through the performance of the sacraments such as Baptism, Penance or Confirmation, there remains an enduring damage, or “lingering stain of sin” that cannot be resolved solely through proclamations of faith. Thus, even those who have “died in God’s grace and friendship” and have insured their own eventual salvation, may still be plagued by imperfections, thus halting their passage into heavenly glory. Therefore, purgatory exists as a transitory state between the moral world and Paradise that acts as a state of purification and healing, where incomplete souls and the unsanctified are able to reject the deceit of their past lives and undergo a new spiritual awakening under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. To elaborate, the divine spirit penetrates one’s being and transforms them by dethatching them from past deeds opening new pathways to liberation and redemption. Ultimately, the very fact that this opportunity of repentance exists works to highlight great forgiveness and kindness that God projects out towards his creations. That is to say,