An indulgence is an act of faith by which a person may obtain release from the temporal punishment associated with sins committed, either for oneself or on behalf of another. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, par. 1471) The Holy Father has granted a special indulgence to be available for the faithful through the duration of the year (November 19, 2020 – December 8, 2021). Here’s how to obtain the grace of the indulgence.

For able-bodied Catholics:

• Take a pilgrimage. Make a journey to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, in Brenham, where “holy doors” have been designated for the Jubilee Year. Traveling to a pilgrimage site and crossing through a holy door is a spiritual journey that signals, as the Holy Father said, “the deep desire for true conversion.”
• Go to confession.
• Receive the Holy Eucharist while reflecting on God’s mercy.
• Make a profession of faith (Nicene or Apostles’ Creed are good options).
• Pray for the pope and for his intentions. An “Our Father” and “Hail Mary” are traditional
• Perform one of the Spiritual or Corporal Works of Mercy.

It is appropriate that the sacramental confession and especially Holy Communion and the prayer for the pope’s intentions take place on the same day of the pilgrimage, but it is not necessary. The sacramental rites and prayers may be carried out within several days (about twenty days) and at a place other than the pilgrimage site.

For the elderly, confined, and the ill:

For persons physically unable to visit St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, in Brenham, they may obtain the indulgence by living with faith and joyful hope. Receiving Communion or attending Holy Mass and community prayer, even though the various available means of communication, will be for them the means of obtaining the Indulgence. These persons may also perform one of the Spiritual or Corporal Works of Mercy as their abilities permit.