Dear Catholic Exchange:
I have been a converted catholic for over 40 years, yet I am still confused about many issues and church teaching. I just found this web site and I like it a lot. My first question is what happens to our soul when we die? Do we go right to heaven, hell or purgatory?
Thanks,
Bob Holt
Dear Mr. Holt,
Peace in Christ!
The Catechism of the Catholic Church provides explanations for these fundamental questions. There are two articles on what is often called “Last Things.” Here are two paragraphs from that section.
“Death puts an end to human life as the time open to either accepting or rejecting the divine grace manifested in Christ. [Cf. 2 Tim 1:9-10] The New Testament speaks of judgment primarily in its aspect of the final encounter with Christ in his second coming, but also repeatedly affirms that each will be rewarded immediately after death in accordance with his works and faith. The parable of the poor man Lazarus and the words of Christ on the cross to the good thief, as well as other New Testament texts speak of a final destiny of the soul — a destiny which can be different for some and for others.” (Catechism, no. 1021).
“Each man receives his eternal retribution in his immortal soul at the very moment of his death, in a particular judgment that refers his life to Christ: either entrance into the blessedness of heaven — through a purification or immediately, — or immediate and everlasting damnation.
“At the evening of life, we shall be judged on our love. [St. John of the Cross, Dichos 64.]” (Catechism, no. 1022).
There are a few online versions of the Catechism. However, the index and glossary of the printed edition are very helpful.
I hope that this helps. Here are a few Faith Fact related to your question that might prove useful:
• Who Art in Heaven: The Dwelling Place of God
• Purgatory
• Hell: The Self-Exclusion From God
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United in the Faith,
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