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Fathers agree that "purification" of the souls takes place between the Particular and Final Judgment. The nature of the particular judgment does not differ from the final one, and the question as to who can be united wiht God before the Final Judgment can be answered by how Christ-like the soul is at the time of death.

But we cannot be sure, as we cannot be sure if the purification is instantaneous or not -- since God has the power to forgive our sins, but our naural state of body and soul will not change, and therefore will continue in the unnatural state until the Final Judgemnt.

And as Kosta mentions, there is an ancient practice of praying TO saints to intercede - not just to beg mercy for their souls

But they can only ask for mercy too, Jo. We can only ask for mercy; nothing more.

The nature of the particular judgment does not differ from the final one

It is my understanding that the Particular judgment is meant only for us - where we are judged to eternal heaven (probably via Purgatory) or eternal hell. The Final Judgment is meant for EVERYONE to see, the saved and damned, so that all can see that God is just and merciful, giving everyone the opportunity during life to respond to God's call. Also, we will all receive glorified bodies that will unite with our souls.

Regards

But they can only ask for mercy too, Jo. We can only ask for mercy; nothing more

True, but God is pleased to answer the prayers of a righteous man. Being in heaven, we'd presume they are righteous and God will be more pleased to work His graces through the intercessions of that saint in heaven.

Regards