In another biblical narrative, we also observe a widespread rejection of the dead communicating with the living. In the story of Lazarus and the rich man, the wealthy man requests that Lazarus be dispatched to alert his siblings to prevent them from facing torment. However, Abraham responded, “They have Moses and the prophets; let them heed them” (Lk 16:29). This implies that God’s general expectation is for us to depend on what He has disclosed through Scripture and the teachings of the Church. This negates any consistent necessity for us to receive messages from the souls in heaven. Certainly, they intercede for us there, and they also believe that God will provide essential graces, prompts, and reminders.

Thus, although it is conceivable that God occasionally permits the souls in heaven to convey messages, this appears to be uncommon, and our most reliable approach is to adhere to the fundamental teachings of God found in Scripture and Church doctrine.

Beliefs regarding family in the afterlife

Question: Frequently on Facebook and various other platforms, individuals refer to their departed loved ones as residing in heaven. How should we interpret this kind of expression, and what terminology should we use to refer to those who have passed away?

— Mila Glodava, via email

Answer: On one side, we might interpret phrases like this as an optimistic and courteous approach to discussing the deceased. Theologically, though, asserting or presuming that an individual is in heaven is incorrect for several reasons. First, we assume a position of judgment that is meant for Christ alone. Second, we risk falling into presumption. Third, we frequently lead others into uncertain hope or assumption. Fourth, we often deny the souls in purgatory the prayers they rightfully require and deserve from us.

Scripture does not indicate that we die and immediately ascend to heaven. We have a small appointment to attend: the judgment seat of Christ (cf. 2 Cor 5:10; Heb 9:27). This is certainly something worth praying over! And even if the judgment does not pertain to hell, a subsequent judgment addresses the flaws and griefs that must be cleansed (cf. 1 Cor 3:12-15), for nothing imperfect can enter heaven (cf. Rv 21:27). It is not only our sins or their consequences that require removal, but we also carry burdens that we know we cannot take to heaven, such as regrets, past wounds, sorrows, etc. Christ must wipe away these tears from our eyes (cf. Rv 7:17; 21:4).

Thus, it is reasonable to believe that when our dear ones pass away, they undergo a phase of cleansing and purification. The duration of this process and how time here corresponds to “time” in purgatory or heaven remains uncertain.

Maybe a more appropriate manner of referring to our loved one is the conventional approach: “Uncle Joe passed away two years ago. May he rest in peace.” This circumvents false glorifications and encourages prayer. It serves as a reminder to others that Uncle Joe is under God’s watch, who understands what is right, just, optimal and essential.

Msgr. Charles Pope is the pastor of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian in Washington, D.C., and writes for the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. at blog.adw.org. Send questions to msgrpope@osv.com.