It’s a shocking thought at first – praying for another’s death.
Is it a sin to do so?
If it isn’t, when should you pray for another’s death and when shouldn’t you?
Believe it or not, the Catholic Church teaches that isn’t a sin in all cases, and there are actually certain times we should do so!
Turning to the Baltimore Catechism, we find the condition required to pray for another’s death:
“Nor is it sinful to wish another’s death, under the condition that it be in accord with God’s will.” – BC No. 3 210
In what situations may we pray for another’s death without sin?
“For example, to wish a person’s death so that he will be relieved of great suffering, or because he is a menace to society or is likely to inflict grave harm on an innocent person, or because he deserves death by reason of crime.”
Pray for a “happy death!” 🙏
Want to know more?
Learn why Saint Joseph is the patron saint of a happy death.
