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ApologeticsFebruary 22, 2026

Ghosts: What Does the Church Teach? (Purgatory vs. Demons)

Do ghosts exist? Yes. But they aren't what you think. The difference between a Holy Soul asking for prayer and a Demon disguised as grandma.

M
MyPrayerTower Team
6 min read Theological Reflection

A "ghost" is a disembodied spirit. The Church teaches there are three types:

1. Holy Souls (Purgatory)

God can permit a soul from Purgatory to visit earth to ask for prayers.

  • They usually bring a sense of sadness but not fear.
  • They ask for Masses or prayers.
  • Padre Pio said he saw more souls from Purgatory than living people.

2. Damned Souls (Hell)

Extremely rare. They cannot leave hell unless God permits it as a warning.

3. Demons (Fallen Angels)

Most "hauntings" or poltergeist activity are demonic.

  • They bring coldness, fear, foul odors (sulfur/rotting meat), and confusion.
  • They often mimic dead relatives to trick you into communicating with them (necromancy).

Rule of Thumb

Never seek communication with the dead. It is forbidden (Deuteronomy 18). If you see something:

  1. Do not be afraid.
  2. Say: "In the name of Jesus, if you are a soul in Purgatory, I will pray for you. Go in peace."
  3. Pray for them.
  4. If it persists or gets violent, call a priest.

Pray for the dead, don't talk to them. Offer a Mass for the Holy Souls on the MyPrayerTower app.



A Prayer for Grace

As you reflect on these spiritual truths, we invite you to join us in this prayer:

"Lord Jesus, we thank You for the wisdom of the Church and the witness of the saints. Grant us the grace to live out our faith with joy and perseverance. May our prayers be a sweet incense rising to Your throne, and may Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen."


Deepen Your Spiritual Journey

If you found this reflection helpful, we invite you to explore more ways to strengthen your faith with MyPrayerTower:

May God bless you and keep you always in His grace.

"O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee."
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