Family Mission for Souls in Purgatory

Did you know that you are able to help people in Purgatory by gaining an indulgence for them? An indulgence is not about forgiveness of sins – sins confessed in the Sacrament of Reconciliation have already been forgiven! Rather, an indulgence completes the spiritual cleansing that occurs in Purgatory in order to prepare us to see God face to face in Heaven. An indulgence is partial if it removes part of someone’s time in Purgatory, and plenary if it removes all of their time in Purgatory. 

This November, lead your family in obtaining indulgences for your deceased family members, or the poor souls in purgatory who have no one to pray for them. Here is what you need to do:

1. On any (and each) day from Nov. 1-8, visit a cemetery and pray for those who have died (specifically the person who you want to receive the plenary indulgence). OR On All Souls Day (Nov. 2), visit a church and recite the Our Father and Creed (which we do at Mass!).

2. Pray and seek to be free from all attachment to sin, including venial sin (if not, the indulgence will be partial).

3. Receive the Sacrament of Confession within 20 days before or after the indulgence is sought.

4. Receive Holy Communion, ideally within Mass on the day the indulgence is sought.

5. Offer prayers for the intentions of the Holy Father. Our Father and Hail Mary is suggested, but you could choose another prayer as you see fit.

Thank God that He allows us to help our family and friends in Purgatory, to be ready to come into His presence!