Providence, R.I.--Rev. John S. Peterson, O.P. '57, chaplain to the National Alumni/ae Association, is seeking the names of loved ones of Providence College alumni who have died so they can be remembered at Mass and in prayers in November.

A message from Father Peterson:
When the trees dress for fall, and we inhale the crisp autumnal air, we know November is near. In this somber month, our Church reminds us to "Remember The Souls in Purgatory"; "It is a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead." (2 Maccabees 12:40-46)

William J. O'Malley, the Jesuit scholar and author, writes: "I think there has to be a purgatory, not for debtors to wipe out a debt, but for those who die incapable of genuine joy." His insight is consistent with LUMEN GENTIUM, the document of Vatican II, which says the sacred Council accepts with great devotion the faith of our ancestors about this vital fellowship with our brothers and sisters, who having died, are still being purified.

During November, our Dominican Community at Providence College will remember at Mass and in prayer all your loved ones who have died, in case they need our prayers. If they don't, then they will pray for us. (Not a bad arrangement!)

So please send their names, but do not include any offering. This is a unique way for us to say "Thank You" for all you are, and for all you do. Please send the names to me at jpetersn@providence.edu, or send a note to Rev. John Peterson, O.P., National Chaplain PC Alumni/ae, Office of Institutional Advancement, Harkins Hall 109, Providence College, Providence, R.I. 02918.

May God Bless You,
Father Peterson

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