Thank you for joining us for this episode of Godsplaining. My guest today is the one and only Dr. Peter Kreeft, longtime professor of philosophy at Boston College and a noted author. Perhaps you, like me, have read one of Dr. Kreeft’s many books — there are certainly plenty to choose from. I’m so excited to have the good professor with us today to discuss his latest works...

Throughout the month of November, Catholics aim with special dedication to fulfill the sweetest of the spiritual works of mercy, which is to pray for our beloved dead. We do so of course on Nov. 2, the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day), which this year happily fell on a Sunday. The Church remembers our beloved dead not just on this day, however, but makes suffrage for them throughout the year — and with special fervor in November.

Death awaits at the end of every human life, and this profound event is also the entry point to the final judgment by Jesus that will determine the permanent destination of every human soul: heaven or hell. The Catholic Church consequently has always emphasized the crucial importance of celebrating a funeral Mass, since it is the instrument through which recently departed souls can be commended to the care of God — and assisted by the prayers of their families and friends — on their final journey.

Feast date: Nov 15

St. Albert the Great is a Doctor of the Church and the patron saint of scientists. The native German joined the newly formed Order of Preachers (Dominicans) in the early 13^th century. He earned a doctorate from the University of Paris and taught theology there and in Cologne, Germany.

 

Albert became known as “Great” because of his intellectual abilities; he was a respected philosopher, scientist, theologian and teacher, and was well-versed in Arabic culture. One of his students, who later became a great friend and built upon his Scholastic method, was Thomas Aquinas.

 

He died Nov. 15, 1280.

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