Good reflection, as always. Could you please clarify or expand on what you mean when you state, “The ‘mental concept’ of Purgatory ‘grew out of’ the same practices of penance and ‘good works’ that led to the same abuses that paved the way for the Protestant Reformations of the 16th century that were discussed last week.”

I am particularly confused about the references to “mental concept” and “grew out of” when Purgatory is biblical. Or, do you mean that Purgatory is one of the aspects that Martin Luther took into account when he founded the Protestant Reformation? Could you please clarify?

Also, are you able to speak to why the Orthodox Church does not believe in Purgatory?

Lastly, I am concerned that some people may interpret “we will be saved” something along the lines of how our Protestant brothers and sisters do. While they believe that they have already been saved, and works has nothing to do with it, readers may look at “we will be saved” without any works. I apologize if I misread what you wrote.

Thank you and God bless you.