Definition of Purgatory

According to the Catechism, purgatory is a state of final purification reserved for people who are assured admittance to heaven but must first be cleansed of their sins.

Sacraments that Remove Sin

The Sacrament of Penance and the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick are referred to as healing sacraments because they reconcile a sinner with God. Receiving either of these Sacraments before death will either lessen the amount of time in purgatory or allow immediate admittance to heaven.