A Prayer for the Holy Souls

O Lord Jesus Christ, King of glory, deliver the souls of all the faithful departed from the pains of hell and from the bottomless pit; deliver them from the lion’s mouth, that hell not swallow them up, that they fall not into darkness, but let the holy standard bearer Michael bring them into that holy light which You promised to Abraham and his seed.

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The background of A Prayer for the Holy Souls

The Prayer for the Holy Souls is a Catholic prayer that is offered for the benefit of the souls in purgatory. The prayer has its roots in the early Church, where it was believed that the souls of the faithful departed were in need of prayer and intercession.

During the Middle Ages, the concept of purgatory became more fully developed, leading to an increased emphasis on prayer and penance for those in need of purification. The prayer for the holy souls became a central part of this devotional practice.

In the 16th century, the Council of Trent affirmed the existence of purgatory and encouraged the faithful to offer prayers and sacrifices for the souls in need of purification.

In the 20th century, the prayer for the holy souls has continued to be a popular devotional practice, particularly during the month of November, when the Church commemorates the faithful departed.

The prayer expresses the Church’s belief in the power of prayer and intercession to aid the souls in purgatory, who are unable to pray for themselves. By offering this prayer, the faithful believe that they can assist these souls in their journey towards eternal life with God.