What to Understand about Indulgences
The understanding and significance of Plenary Indulgences Plenary indulgences are profound gifts offered by the Catholic Church, providing a path to spiritual purification and closeness to God. Rooted in the belief of God’s boundless mercy, plenary indulgences hold immense significance for believers seeking to deepen their faith and draw closer to their Creator.
Understanding Plenary Indulgences
In Catholic theology, an indulgence is a remission of temporal punishment due to sins that have already been forgiven through the sacrament of confession. Plenary indulgences go beyond partial remissions and offer complete purification, wiping away all temporal punishment for past sins, making the soul as pure as a newly baptized infant.
The Significance of Plenary Indulgences
- The Gift of Divine Mercy: Plenary indulgences emphasize the abundant mercy of God, assuring believers that He forgives sins and invites them to experience spiritual renewal and grace.
- Liberation from Temporal Punishment: Obtaining a plenary indulgence frees the soul from the temporal punishment that sin inflicts, allowing believers to grow in holiness and spiritual freedom.
- Strengthening the Bond with the Church: Plenary indulgences remind believers of their unity with the universal Church and the communion of saints, encouraging them to be active members of the faith community.
- Encouragement to Penance and Conversion: Pursuing a plenary indulgence fosters a spirit of sincere repentance, encouraging believers to turn away from sin and embrace a life of virtue.
Source: Bonnie Dahlke, The Pastors Voice
Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 