Purgatory: a burning issue?

Abstract

The thesis explores the subject of purgatory and its relative value for modern people. It summarises:

1. The manner in which biblical texts used to underpin the doctrine; 2. The history of the doctrine within the Roman Catholic Church and the reaction to it during the Reformation and beyond; and 3. Contemporary formulations of purgatory and purgatory-like ideas.

The thesis argues, from several perspectives, that a modern formulation of the doctrine is:

1. Reasonable; 2. Biblically consistent; 3. Meets the criteria of an established Tradition at practice within the Church; and 4. Is capable of assisting people in understanding and appreciating the existential questions of death and the after life.

The thesis is approached from the angle of a Legal Counsel presenting an argument for acceptance of the thesis.