Purgatory: An Historical and Contemporary Analysis


A fresh look by the author at the mystery of Purgatory...dogma for Catholics, but rejected by Protestants. The work examines early writings by the Church Fathers, particularly those of St. Augustine whose influence was extremely important in shaping Church dogma almost a thousand years after his death. Although "purgatorium" was not used until the 12th century, the scandals of indulgence selling, which led to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, are examined. Despite the proclamation of Purgatory as dogma by the Catholic Church in the Councils of Florence and Trent, Purgatory was rejected by the reformers. Private revelations of Purgatory and the updating of indulgences by Paul VI in 1967 and current thinking of Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI are featured. The book contains abundant primary source materials.

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