Each Lent, millions of Americans examine their souls in a time of fasting and reflection that imitates Christ's own 40-day period in the desert. For Catholics, this harbinger of Easter's joy and hope for our eternal souls includes reflection on Purgatory -- part of the journey that takes us from this life to the next.
But for most Protestants, this is a belief that has no theological or scriptural basis. It has become one of several chasms separating the denominations. As Easter approaches yet again, it is an appropriate time to explore whether the split on Purgatory is one of theology or simply a the need for a model that appeals to all Christians.
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