The Gift of the Apostolic Pardon

Abstract

Meeting the right of the faithful to receive the sacraments can be difficult, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Church needs opportunities to minister to the faithful, especial when there is a danger of death. Remission of sins is of vital importance in these cases. To gain a plenary indulgence, three specific conditions must be met: sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion, and prayer according to the Holy Father’s intentions. A special kind of plenary indulgence, the apostolic pardon, is administered to someone who is in danger of death. It is advantageous because it can be done without making physical contact with the sick or impaired, but also because in times of great need, an apostolic pardon can be prayed for in absence of a priest. Family members and health care professionals can help a patient pray for the apostolic pardon even if he or she is not fully conscious.