Special Indulgence for the COVID-19 Pandemic
During these extraordinary days, we know that the ways in which we normally experience the working of grace through the Church have largely been suspended.
We cannot be physically present at Mass; the Sacrament of Reconciliation is almost impossible because of closed churches and social distancing and even the anointing of the sick and dying may be severely curtailed. However, through all of this Christ never abandons his people and all the baptised continue to make up the Body of Christ. To assure people of the certainty of grace and mercy, even without the normal recourse to the Sacraments the Holy Father has granted the gift of a Plenary Indulgence to all those affected by the Corona Virus in various ways. This extends to those suffering from the virus, their families, Healthcare workers and the general Faithful who are concerned at this time.
This moment of grace is an opportunity for us to be more completely free from the effects of sin. It can encourage us on our pilgrim path through these difficult times as we are assured of the Lord’s healing, forgiveness and the promise of Eternal Life. The requirements for the Indulgence, which are set out in the Decree are gentle and achievable and form a wonderful opportunity for us simply to pray for each other at this time. Now across the world, when people are staying apart to draw together, we can all draw together across the Universal Church in this powerful act of Faith and Hope.
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