The Diocese of Phoenix commemorated of All Souls Day, which was celebrated Tuesday. The ceremony makes note of deceased souls who are prayed for while they await entrance into heaven. 

The celebration of All Souls Day is normally a Holy Day of Obligation within the Catholic Church, though it can be excused if an individual is sick or cannot attend for some other legitimate reason.

“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let the perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen,” the Phoenix Diocese tweeted.

Although the final destination for a man or woman of God is heaven, the Catholic doctrine of purgatory teaches that all those who die in a state of friendship with God, though ultimately heading to heaven, may go first to purgatory to be separated from any sins that they are still attached to at the time of their deaths.

In 2 Maccabees Chapter 12 verses 44-45, strong biblical proof is offered for purgatory.

“For had he not expected the fallen to rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead, where if he had in view the splendid recompense reserved for those who make a pious end, the thought was holy and devout," it reads.  "Hence, he had this expiatory sacrifice offered for the dead, so that they might be released from their sin.” 

According to Britannica, “Roman Catholic doctrine holds that the prayers of the faithful on Earth will help cleanse these souls in order to fit them for the vision of God in heaven, and the day is dedicated to prayer and remembrance. Requiem masses are commonly held, and many people visit and sometimes decorate the graves of loved ones.”