VATICAN CITY (ChurchMilitant.com) – The Church recently announced a special period for obtaining a plenary indulgence. The period to obtain this indulgence began on Dec. 8 and extends to Feb. 2, 2024.
This opportunity coincides with two significant feasts in the Catholic liturgical calendar: the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which was on Dec. 8, and the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ in the Temple, marked on Feb. 2.
A plenary indulgence remits all the temporal punishment due to one’s sins. It may be applied to oneself or offered for the faithful departed.
Honoring Franciscan Tradition
The key to this spiritual privilege is prayer before a Nativity scene, specifically in Franciscan churches. This tradition dates back to St. Francis of Assisi, who created the first Nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, in 1223, symbolizing the profound mystery of the Incarnation.
The initiative commemorates the 800th anniversary of his inception of the Nativity scene and the Rule of St. Francis — practical guidance to live a holy life by following in the footsteps of Christ. On Oct. 4, during the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the faithful gathered at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy, to honor this legacy.
The Conference of the Franciscan Family successfully sought approval from Pope Francis for this indulgence. The Apostolic Penitentiary, a tribunal of the Holy See, welcomed the request, marking a significant moment for the faithful worldwide.
Franciscan Fr. Michael Heine, from Maryland, emphasized St. Francis’ deep connection to the Incarnation. He noted that while Nativity scenes are typically set up later in Advent, they would be available earlier this year in Franciscan-staffed churches for the indulgence.
Parishioners are invited to visit and pray before these Nativity scenes at specified times while respecting the traditions and schedules being observed for the Advent and Christmas seasons.
Catholics can go online for a list of Franciscan-affiliated churches participating in this indulgence or an interactive map.
The Church also extends this spiritual benefit to those who are sick or unable to participate physically, emphasizing the inclusive nature of this grace. They are asked to offer up their suffering to Our Lourd by carrying out practices of piety.
Conditions for the Indulgence
To be eligible for a plenary indulgence, either for oneself or on behalf of a departed loved one, the Church outlines five essential conditions that must be met:
Sacramental confession. Individuals can receive this sacrament up to 20 days before or after the day they intend to receive the indulgence. This practice allows for the absolution of sins and is a fundamental step in preparing oneself spiritually.
Reception of Holy Communion. Individuals should receive Christ in the Eucharist within the same 20-day window as the confession. (Canon laws 914 and 915 address the need to consume Our Lord with due respect, free of unrepented sin that can defile His real presence).
Prayer for the pope’s intentions. Praying for the intentions of the Holy Father is an act of unity with the broader Church.
Complete detachment from sin. A complete and sincere detachment from all sin, including venial sin, is necessary. This means cultivating an inner disposition that rejects not just the act of sinning, but also the desire or inclination towards any sin.
Completion of designated prayers or acts. The Church specifies certain prayers or acts that must be performed to receive the indulgence. These acts are often tied to the nature of the indulgence being sought and are intended to deepen the spiritual experience of the individual. As mentioned, the designated prayer/act for this indulgence is praying in front of a Nativity scene at a Franciscan church.
These conditions, steeped in tradition and faith, emphasize the importance of sincere repentance, unity with the Church, and a commitment to living a life aligned with Catholic teachings. They are designed to guide the faithful on a path of spiritual renewal and deeper connection with their faith.