The day is rooted in the belief that the prayers of the living can assist the souls of the deceased who are in a state of purification, often referred to as .
: To offer intercession for those who died in God’s grace but still require cleansing from "lesser" or venial sins before entering the full presence of God in heaven. all souls' day
The practice of praying for the dead dates back to early Christianity and the Old Testament (2 Maccabees). All Souls' Day - Article - The Abbot's Circle The day is rooted in the belief that