Communion of Saints
The Communion of Saints is the Catholic belief that all the faithful — those on earth, those being purified in Purgatory, and those already in heaven — remain spiritually united as one Church, able to pray for and support one another.
Three States, One Church
Catholics describe this as the Church "militant" (on earth), "suffering" (in Purgatory), and "triumphant" (in heaven) — three states of the same single, unbroken Church.
Why Catholics Ask Saints to Pray for Them
Because the saints in heaven remain part of this same communion, Catholics ask for their intercession just as they might ask a friend on earth to pray for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is praying to saints the same as worshiping them?
No — Catholics ask saints to intercede with God on their behalf, the same as asking any fellow believer to pray for them; worship (adoration) is offered to God alone.
Is the Communion of Saints mentioned in the Creed?
Yes — it's explicitly professed in the Apostles' Creed, right after belief in "the holy catholic Church."