What is a plenary indulgence?

Written by Shannon Olinski

As you may know, All Saints’ (Nov. 1) and Souls’ (Nov. 2) Days have been a part of the Catholic Church calendar for centuries. A quick search online will detail the longstanding history, but a deeper dive into reliable Catholic references will help you understand the significance of our spiritual and physical actions over this two-day period, including praying for the souls of the faithful departed, which can impart a plenary indulgence. 

Are you familiar with plenary indulgences? Maybe you’ve never heard of them or briefly reviewed the topic in religious education years ago. Perhaps you were told they’re a thing of the past, which is far from true. If you’re a Catholic all-star, you might dedicate yourself to obtaining them frequently. 

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 1471) defines indulgence as, “a [removal] of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven."

Father Mike Schmitz likens it to physical therapy for sins after a major surgery. You likely would not undergo a life-altering procedure without being prescribed rehabilitation, thereafter. 

In 2021, the faithful may gain plenary indulgences for the souls in purgatory by visiting a cemetery on every day (or any day) in November and praying for those who have died.

As we pray for the souls in Purgatory during the month of November, let us also remember completing the steps to do so will benefit our own salvation.

Note: We’re blessed to have the opportunity extended for the entire month, as we’re living in a pandemic. Silver lining, am I right? 

What’s lovely about this practice is the ability to grow closer to God and sacrifice for others, simultaneously. As you seek to lift others to Heaven, you are participating in the sacraments and prayers of the Church, which continually heap blessings upon you. 

Let us all consider making plenary indulgences a habit, during this month, and throughout the rest of the year.

>> You can read more about All Saints and All Souls Day on CatholicsOnline.com.