The faith of our fathers - Carmel Apologetics

"PTJEGATORY, ETC. 253of great assistance to their souls, while the holy andtremendous sacrifice is offeredup."And he answersby an illustration those who might be disposed todoubt the efficacy of prayers for the dead : If aking had banished certain persons who had offendedhim, and their relations having woven a crown,should offer it to him in behalf of those under hisvengeance, would he not grant a respite to theirpunishments? So we, inoffering up a crown ofprayers in behalf of those who have fallen asleep,will obtain for them forgiveness through the meritsof Christ," 1St.Ephrem, in the same century, says:jure you, my brethren and friends, in the name ofthat God who commands me to leave you, to remember me when you assemble to pray. Do not"I conbury me with perfumes. Give them not to me, butto God. Me, conceived in sorrows, bury with lamentations, and instead of perfumes, assist me with yourprayers for the dead are benefited by the ; prayersof livingsaints." 2St. Ambrose (same century), on the death of theEmperors Gratian and Valentinian, says: "Blessedshall both of you be (Gratiau and Valentiuian), ifmy prayers can avail anything. No day shall passyon over in silence. No prayer of mine shall omitto honor you. No night shall hurry by withoutbestowing on you a mention in my prayers. In1 Catech., n. 9, 10, p. 328.8Apud Faith of Catholics, Vol. III., p. 162 and sej.22