[NYer]

Conspicuously absent from all of the above are Scriptural references that support such a belief.

You posted your comment before I had an opportunity to post the Scriptural support. You will find these at comment #5.

[Enosh]

#4 was blatantly silly, but as a Protestant, I do have an honest question.

What about prayers to the dead, in hope that they could better present the case before our Lord?

This is not intended to be an attack, I just never understood it.

Thanks.

[Salvation]

some other threads about Purgatory:

The Doctrine of Purgatory

Required for entrance to Purgatory? Personal question for Cathloic Freepers.

(Protestant) Minister Who Had Near-Death Episode Believes In Purgatory

Straight Answers: What Is Purgatory Like?

Do Catholics Believe in Purgatory?

Purgatory, Indulgences, and the Work of Jesus Christ (Discussion)

Prayer to Release the Souls of Purgatory

The Forgotten Souls in Purgatory

Praying for the dead [Purgatory]