Hello,

Question, what would happen if no one prayed for the souls in purgatory?
Purgatory isn't a second chance. Souls there are saved but they are going through a period of purification before entering heaven is all.

We are always told to pray for the souls in purgatory as we are the ones who can help them.

But again, and I don't mean this flippantly, what happens if we don't pray for them?
Time isn't applicable outside the physical universe so, I don't know if its correct to say they will be there a longer time.
And, one opponent might say "it doesn't really matter how much time they're there for because they are already saved".

I have no intention of stopping my prayers for the dead or the souls in purgatory but was just curious about this.

Regards.

They'd get out eventually anyhow, but we can show them kindness by helping them.

There has to be some aspect of time involved because without time, there is no such thing as change. Time in Purgatory doesn't run by earthly clocks, but it does exist.

Purgatory was created after heaven and the creation of Flesh. God's plan is to place flesh in heaven above the angels. The angels that disagreed with God's plan were dismissed from heaven. The angels wishing restitution, with a firm commitment of amendment had no means to restore friendship with God, for they had not flesh to do good works and penance for absolution. Man is very similar to angels in that man has a soul like angels. Also, man has a choice just like the angels, but man has on thing that makes them far greater than the Angels. The old testament had salvation through the Ten commandments, sacrifice, atonement and penance through sacrifice of an animal. This was punishment to restore friendship. Giving up of an animal that could have been used for food for the family, or clothing to wear for warmth. This was the prop that gave strength to the soul to do what was right and correct the flaw created by the internal tempter, or choice. This is what confession is all about, to correct and strengthen the soul so next time when tempted, we will answer in the correct way in line with what would Jesus do in this case. Flesh allows what is required for salvation, good works through examination of conscience, realizing the nature of sin and being able to do the required penance through sacraments. As in the confession of St Peter, when he realized and admitted that Jesus was God. This is where the keys to heaven are handed out. This is why we will be the angels judge, to receive eternal life of the flesh through Jesus Christ who has destroyed death forever for all that believe in everything He taught on earth.

Peace always,
Stephen