In the rich spiritual tradition of the Catholic Church, the plenary indulgence represents a unique opportunity to renew the soul and draw closer to God’s mercy. But did you know that you can gain a plenary indulgence not only during a Jubilee Year, but also in many moments of your daily life?
Below, we explain how to do it step by step, with clarity and depth.
What is a plenary indulgence?
A plenary indulgence is a grace that removes all remaining temporal punishment for sins already forgiven in confession. It does not replace the sacrament of forgiveness, but rather complements it, helping to purify the soul and promote greater spiritual growth.
General Conditions
To gain a plenary indulgence, whether during Jubilee 2025 or at any time, you must meet these essential conditions:
1. Sacramental Confession
You must confess sincerely and repentantly. A single confession is sufficient for several indulgences, if the state of grace is maintained.
2. Eucharistic Communion
It is necessary to receive the Eucharist with devotion for each indulgence you wish to obtain.
3. Prayer for the Pope’s intentions
It is recommended to pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Gloria, but you may use other prayers if you do so with the appropriate intention.
4. Total Detachment from Sin
This is the most demanding requirement: to have an absolute rejection of even venial sin. Interior disposition is key.
The Prescribed Work: Your Act of Faith
In addition to the above conditions, it is necessary to perform an indulgence, such as:
- Pilgrimage to a designated shrine or basilica.
- Praying the Rosary in community or with family.
- Performing Eucharistic adoration for at least half an hour.
- Praying the Stations of the Cross with devotion.
- Reading Sacred Scripture for at least 30 minutes.
- Performing spiritual or corporal works of mercy.
Works of Charity During Jubilee 2025
Jubilee 2025 places special emphasis on works of charity, which can include:
- Visiting the sick, the elderly, prisoners, or lonely people.
- Helping the poor, migrants, abandoned children, or at-risk youth.
- Donating a proportional amount of money to those in need.
- Volunteering your time in your parish or community.
- Defending life at all stages and promoting the common good.
These actions must come from a generous and compassionate heart, beyond the material act itself.
When and how often can it be obtained?
- Only one plenary indulgence per day, except in cases of danger of death (in articulo mortis).
- The general conditions can be fulfilled 20 days before or after the indulgenced work.
- Each indulgence requires a separate Communion and a prayer for the Pope.
A Daily Opportunity for Grace
Although the Jubilee offers privileged occasions, plenary indulgences are available every day. They are a call to holiness, a spiritual medicine, and a help for the souls in purgatory, to whom we can also apply this grace.
Final Reflection
Gaining a plenary indulgence is not a magical or automatic practice. It is an act of faith, an expression of love for God and neighbor. It invites us to convert each day, with humility, charity, and a sincere desire for holiness.
Do you dare to live this experience of grace? Begin today, with a willing heart, sincere prayer, and an act of love.
“Father of mercy, teach us to live each day as pilgrims of love, witnesses of your grace, and workers of your Kingdom.” 🙏✨
