Indulgences Archives

Francis on Friday delivered an iconic image that stirred a country’s soul

Mar 29, 2020

In one fell swoop Friday night, Francis not only delivered what seems destined to become the most iconic image of the pandemic, he effectively shut down what had been a mounting undercurrent of criticism about the supposed “invisibility” and “silence” of the Church.

By John L. Allen Jr.

Pope calls for universal prayer as virus death toll skyrockets

Mar 22, 2020

Following a particularly deadly week for Italians inflicted with the COVID-19 coronavirus, Pope Francis on Sunday urged Christians everywhere from different confessions to unite in shared moments of prayer, including several he will be leading at the Vatican.

By Elise Ann Allen

Coronavirus revives the old, ushers in the new in Catholic practice

Mar 22, 2020

With increasing numbers of people confined at home with no access to Mass or confession, pastors everywhere, Pope Francis included, have turned to some little-known, or at least little-used, concepts and practices, including “spiritual communion,” indulgences and general absolution.

By Elise Ann Allen

Pray for the dead, gain indulgences for them, cardinal urges Catholics

Nov 1, 2019

The early November feasts of All Saints and All Souls are reminders that God’s church exists both on earth and in heaven and that all the faithful, living and dead, can and should pray for each other, a top Vatican official wrote.

By Cindy Wooden

Pray for families, receive an indulgence, Vatican says

May 23, 2018

Catholics who participate in the World Meeting of Families in Dublin in August or pray with their families during the Aug. 21-26 event can receive a plenary indulgence, the Vatican announced.

By Cindy Wooden