A Dead Monk Appeared to His Bishop: He and Saint Bernard Went to Heaven, 3 in Purgatory, the Rest of 32,995 Went To Hell
According to a sermon by St. Vincent Ferrer, there once lived an archdeacon of Lyons who left his post to live a life of penance in solitude. He happened to die on August 20, 1153—the same day as Saint Bernard of Clairvaux.
After his death, this archdeacon appeared to his bishop and told him:
“Know, my Lord, that at the very hour of my death, thirty-three thousand (33,000) others also died. Out of that great number, Bernard and I entered Heaven without delay, three souls went to Purgatory, and all the rest were lost in Hell.”
This chilling account reminds us that, on that day alone, only 2 out of 33,000 souls were saved immediately—while 32,995 were condemned.
Scriptural Warning (Douay–Rheims Bible)
"Enter ye in at the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there are who go in thereat. How narrow is the gate, and strait is the way that leadeth to life: and few there are that find it."
— Matthew 7:13-14, D–R
Church Father’s Voice
St. Augustine once wrote:
“Out of the whole mass of mankind, the greater part will be condemned. Few, therefore, are saved in comparison to those who perish.” (City of God, Book 21, Ch. 12)
Reflection
The numbers from this event are terrifying. If true for even one moment in history, how many more perish daily without repentance? This is not meant to breed despair but urgency. We must live as if our hour is near—avoiding even the smallest deliberate sin, making frequent acts of contrition, receiving the Sacraments often, and embracing penance with humility.
Eternity has no second chances. The “narrow way” is hard, but it leads to everlasting joy with God. Choose it today—before your soul’s hour comes.
BimbyMacbs
Catholic Tradition & Evangelization
