I believe you will find that rather than purgatory you're referring to the theological theory of "infant's limbo" which is where some theologians taught unbaptized babies went. Purgatory is still taught by the Catholic Church.
It appears that in this case you (and apparently your Catholic inlaws) have the wrong end of the stick. If, after 30 years you could get something like this wrong then is it possible you're wrong on other Catholic issues?
I do not bring up the Bible except when asked. I do my very best in encouraging the 'sola scripture' answers all question, not me. Please do NOT question my inlaws Catholicism, we are talking Catholic school and all that contribution outside of tuition involves and whatever other $$$ and church attendance that is required to keep in good standing.
I have attended confirmations, christenings, weddings, funerals etc., with them. Purgatory has not been a recent discussion, but there was 'fear' at the time the discussion took place as to where all those who hang in purgatory might have gone.
Now having relayed all this information, my inlaws vote for liberal democrats.... and they rarely miss mass.
Exactly - it’s a (still mistaken) reference to Limbo and NOT Purgatory.