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In this compelling episode of The Drew Mariani Show on Relevant Radio, Drew takes you on a profound journey through the mysteries of purgatory, Divine Mercy, and the call to holiness inspired by Saint Faustina. It’s a deep reflection on the reality of the afterlife and God’s infinite compassion balanced with His perfect justice. Drew reminds us that the choices we make on earth have eternal consequences — and that, after death, we continue to live on, either in the full presence of God or in the purification of purgatory.
Drawing from the diary of Saint Faustina, Drew shares vivid and sobering visions of the souls in purgatory. Saint Faustina described them as being surrounded by purifying flames — not flames of hatred or despair, but flames of longing, burning with the deep desire to be united with God. Their greatest suffering, she wrote, is the longing for God Himself. In her visions, Our Blessed Mother — tenderly called the “Star of the Sea” — appeared to bring comfort and refreshment to these suffering souls. These images remind us that even in the pain of purification, there is immense hope and mercy.
Drew emphasizes that we are not helpless bystanders; we can truly assist the souls in purgatory. He encourages you to have Masses offered for deceased loved ones, especially Gregorian Masses, which are a powerful 30-day series of Masses for the departed. He also mentions the importance of indulgences, especially during the month of November when the Church offers special graces for the faithful departed. Simple acts — praying the Rosary, saying the Divine Mercy Chaplet, visiting cemeteries, or offering up daily sacrifices — can bring immense relief to the souls who await heaven.
Drew also offers a powerful reminder for our own lives: to avoid purgatory, we must detach from sin, practice virtue, and go to frequent confession. Drew points out that purgatory is not meant to frighten us but to inspire a deeper love of God and a greater urgency to live holy lives. Through stories of Saint Faustina’s encounters with souls in need of prayer, we see how our intercessions truly matter — sometimes taking time, but always bearing fruit.
Drew closes with a heartfelt appeal: never assume a soul — even one who seemed holy or devout — no longer needs prayers. Every Mass, every Rosary, every act of mercy counts. In return, those souls become eternal intercessors, powerful friends in heaven who will pray for us and our families. This reflection is both a spiritual wake-up call and a beautiful reminder of the unbreakable bond between heaven, earth, and purgatory — the Communion of Saints at work.
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