Originally titled in English,
My Personal Experiences With the Poor Souls
, this book is about the experiences of Maria Simma, visited by souls from purgatory who seek her intercession to be released. She is guided by her spiritual father in discernment and practice. These manifestations teach us of the truths in the doctrine of the Catholic Church regarding the afterlife.
To the present book has also been added classic paintings of Purgatory, and an article on Purgatory: All Souls Day from
Bulter's Lives of the Saints
.
Born in 1915 in Austria, came from a poor but devout Catholic family. From a young age, she felt called to serve God either as a nun or a missionary. When she was of age, she attempted to join various convents, but was rejected due to her frailty and poor health. Thus accepting that her calling was to serve as an unmarried layperson, she dedicated her life to prayer, devotion, and helping others in her community.
In 1940, Maria had her first encounter with a soul from Purgatory, who appeared to her requesting prayers and Masses for his deliverance. Her parish priest, a solid and wise director, advised her on how to respond to such visits, and she began a lifelong apostolate of praying for the souls in Purgatory. Initially, only a few souls came to her each year, but over time, more sought her assistance. Maria never sought these visits herself but believed they were allowed by God's mercy to alleviate the suffering of the souls in Purgatory.