- from CatholicCulture.org
The concept of the Communion of Saints is really one of the most beautiful in the Catholic faith. It is our belief that all believers, both living and dead, are connected through our mutual prayers and works for each other. This includes the saints in heaven, the souls in purgatory and believers on earth. Because we are all believers in Christ, we are all part of His Body. As members of the same Body, we have a duty to work together and pray for each other. Through these works and prayers, we are able to strengthen each other and encourage each other to live holier and more faith-filled lives. This communion with all believers is part of what we celebrate at Mass each Sunday, and is the reason we often call receiving the Eucharist "going to communion." It is an outward sign of the unity we share with believers around the world, in heaven and in purgatory. So the next time you go to communion, think of all those believers who have been, who are, and who will be and say a prayer for them.