To celebrate the third annual World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, the Vatican is granting a plenary indulgence on July 23. This indulgence is available to grandparents, the elderly, and any Catholic who participates in Mass or visits the elderly with a spirit of penance and charity. The indulgence can also be obtained through dedicated prayer or watching celebrations like the Pope’s Mass if one is unable to leave home due to sickness or other serious reasons. Conditions include being in a state of grace, detachment from sin, and prayers for the pope’s intentions
The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, established by Pope Francis in 2021, is an annual event that celebrates the significant role of older generations in the Catholic community. It emphasizes the importance of honoring and supporting the elderly, aligning with the biblical principle of respecting and valuing age and wisdom. It is held on the 4th Sunday of July, which is near the feasts of Sts. Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus (July 26).
A plenary indulgence, in Catholic tradition, is a remission of the temporal punishment due to sins that have already been forgiven. It is a grace that can help a person grow closer to God and detach from sin. To receive it, one must perform specific acts under certain conditions, such as confession, communion, and prayer intentions for the Pope.
Historically, the concept of indulgences dates back to the early Church, evolving over centuries. They became formalized as part of the Church’s sacramental and penitential system, reflecting a deeper understanding of grace, repentance, and the communion of saints. Today, they are viewed as a means for the faithful to receive God’s mercy through the Church’s authority to bind and loose on earth as in heaven.
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