Purgatory : An historical and Contemporary Analysis

Purgatory: An Historical and Contemporary Analysis is an easy-to-read examination of the Catholic Church's belief in the condition of Purgatory. Hahnenberg's unbiased view of an historical concept, rejected by Protestantism, gives the history of the Catholic tradition. The development of the belief in temporal punishment after reconciliation with God in sacramental Confession is examined from the post-apostolic era to the Councils of Lyons II, Florence, and Trent. There is an abundance of primary source material from historical letters and documents, both from the 2nd century AD to the present day. The political and religious turmoil during the Protestant Reformation, largely caused by the abuse of indulgences is well-documented in this work. Private revelation of purgatory to saints is scrutinized. Pope Paul VI's simplified revision of the list of indulgences, following Vatican II, is explained.