purgatory

Praying for the dead has its roots in the book of Malachi where the Jews intercede for their comrades who have fallen in battle and were wearing forbidden good luck charms.  The souls completing their purification after this life are intimately united to Christ and permanent members of Christ's body. They are part of the communion of saints and prayers for them are included in the earliest liturgies. We bear one another's burdens until the Last Day.