Dear Parishioners,
November 1-8, the Church gives us the opportunity to gain a plenary indulgence for the souls in purgatory. A plenary indulgence is a special grace that removes all temporal punishment due to sin and brings great relief to those who are waiting for the fullness of God’s mercy.
Here’s how you can participate:
1: Visit a cemetery and pray for the souls of the faithful departed. An Our Father or Hail Mary will suffice, but you may also add St. Gertrude's Prayer as shared below.
Eternal Father, I offer thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus in union with all the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my own family. Amen.
2: On All Souls’ Day, visit a church and pray the Our Father and the Creed for their intentions.
3: Receive Holy Communion and go to Confession within 20 days of fulfilling other requirements.
4: Pray for the intentions of the Pope.
When these conditions are met, you will gain a plenary indulgence for the souls in purgatory. It’s a powerful way to unite your prayers with the Church’s and help those who most need our intercession.
Why does it matter? Every prayer, Mass, and indulgence offered for the souls in purgatory helps them move closer to heaven. Your prayers bring comfort, light, and mercy to those who can't help themselves.
God is good, all the time!