Prayer for the Departed: A Perspective Across Christian Denominations.

I have been struggling with a concept that I wanted to write about. While ordained into the Pentecostal church, I find myself these days, to be very much non-denominational. I wrote about this in March with a post “What Does it Mean to be Non-Denominational” in which I give differentiations between many of the denominations.

As Christians, we believe in the power of prayer. We know that prayer can bring comfort, healing, and strength to those who are suffering. But what about praying for the dead? Is there value in lifting up our departed loved ones in prayer?

In the Christian faith, there are different views on the practice of praying for the dead, often shaped by theological differences among denominations.

In the Roman Catholic Church, praying for the dead is a common practice. Catholics believe in the doctrine of Purgatory, a state of purification where souls are cleansed before entering heaven. Prayers for the dead are seen as a way to assist these souls on their journey to heaven. Catholics often pray for the intercession of saints and the Virgin Mary to help guide the souls of the departed.

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, prayers for the dead are also a significant part of their faith. Orthodox Christians believe that the souls of the departed can benefit from the prayers of the living, helping to ease their passage into the afterlife. The Orthodox Church commemorates the departed during special services such as Panikhidas.

In Protestant denominations, views on praying for the dead vary. Some Protestant groups, such as Lutherans and Anglicans, have traditions that include prayers for the departed, though the practice may not be as prominent as in Catholic or Orthodox churches. Other Protestant groups, particularly those in the Reformed tradition, do not typically emphasize prayers for the dead, as they focus more on the immediate state of the soul after death.

In Reformed theology, emphasis is placed on the concept of sola fide (faith alone) and sola gratia (grace alone) for salvation. According to this view, salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned through good works or prayers. Therefore, prayers for the dead are seen as unnecessary for their salvation, as their fate is believed to be determined at the moment of death based on their faith in Christ.

Paul, in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, speaks of those who were believers in Christ while living, have simply “fallen asleep”, and will rise into Heaven upon Jesus triumphant return.

My thoughts on this topic cannot be complete without considering the story of the resurrection of Lazarus, as found in John 11, as it provides a powerful example of the concept of praying for the dead. In this narrative, Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus, send word to Jesus that their brother is sick. Despite their plea, Lazarus dies before Jesus arrives.

When Jesus finally reaches Bethany, Martha goes out to meet Him, expressing her belief that if Jesus had been there, Lazarus would not have died. Jesus assures her that Lazarus will rise again, to which Martha responds affirming her belief in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus then reveals His power over death by raising Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His authority and the truth of His teachings.

The actions of Mary and Martha in sending for Jesus and expressing their faith can be seen as a form of prayer for their brother. Their faith in Jesus’ ability to heal and their hope in the resurrection are examples of prayerful trust in God’s power and plan, even in the face of death.

From this perspective, the story of Lazarus can be understood as an encouragement to pray for the dead, trusting in God’s mercy and power to bring about resurrection and new life. It highlights the belief that even in death, there is hope and the possibility of restoration through the power of God.

Regardless of denominational differences, the practice of praying for the dead can be a source of comfort and hope. It reminds us of the interconnectedness of the body of Christ, both living and departed, and reinforces our belief in the communion of saints.

For me, I will continue to pray for those who are with us, and those who are departed – sinner or saint, because in Matthew 19:26, we read, “And looking at them, Jesus said to them, ‘With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'” Amen.