Did you know Catholics are some of the only Christians who pray for the dead?
When I was a Methodist, I'd go to funerals and the minister would lead us in prayers for the family--- there was never any mention of praying for the soul of deceased. We assumed that he or she was already rejoicing in Heaven. (The concept of Purgatory doesn't really exist in United Methodist Circles). I don't think my Protestant upbringing was unusual in this regard.
So that means on All Souls Day, we have Catholics have an extra duty to pray for the dead! Today, if you visit a church you have a chance for a Plenary Indulgence. There are also special indulgences attached to visiting a cemetery from Nov 1 to Nov 8.
Do a bunch, and then hit Confession this Saturday. Take your kids!
