Episode 2: What is Death? – Salvation Begins Now: Last Things First

Deacon James Keating and Kris McGregor explore deep themes of Catholic theology around death, salvation, and the journey of purification, both in life and after death. Humanity’s fear of death often stems from the fear of isolation, as humans are created for communion with God and each other. Death brings an anxiety rooted in the dread of losing this communion. Purgatory is a continuation of this journey toward holiness. For those who die in God’s friendship but are still imperfect, purgatory allows for the purification needed to enter Heaven’s fullness—a process likened to a “fire” of love that cleanses and prepares the soul for eternal communion.

The Catholic belief that life on earth should be seen as an opportunity for ongoing repentance and purification, reducing the need for purgatory after death. Sin, especially mortal sin, can sever one’s connection to God, while venial sin does not fully break this bond, allowing hope of eventual communion. The Mass is the ultimate prayer of salvation, as it directly connects the faithful to Calvary and Christ’s redemptive love. The Mass is uniquely powerful for praying for deceased loved ones, as it is a touchpoint of divine grace where heaven meets earth. Catholics should continually pray for the deceased, highlighting the importance of love, community, and intercessory prayer in the Church’s understanding of salvation and eternal life.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

1. Contemplating Death and Communion: How does the fear of separation at death challenge your understanding of communion with God and others?


2. Purgatory and Purification: In what ways can you pursue a life of repentance and purification now, rather than waiting for purgatory?


3. Sin and Relationship with God: How does understanding the distinction between venial and mortal sins affect your approach to daily choices and their impact on your relationship with God?


4. Power of the Mass: Why is the Mass considered the “doorway to salvation,” and how can you deepen your engagement with it for yourself and for your loved ones?


5. Intercessory Prayer for the Deceased: How does praying for deceased loved ones strengthen your connection to the body of Christ and express the Catholic understanding of communal salvation?


6. Running Toward Healing: When you are aware of sin in your life, how can you proactively “run toward healing” through the sacraments and a closer relationship with Christ?


7. Love Beyond Time: How can you expand your view of love and prayer, knowing they transcend time, to include not only the present but the eternal well-being of others?

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church:

“1030 All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.”

Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., is a professor of Spiritual Theology and serves as a spiritual director at Kenrick Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, MO. 

Check out Deacon Keating’s “Discerning Heart” page

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