How to obtain a Plenary Indulgence for the Souls in Purgatory this November
Every year between 1–8 November the Church grants a plenary indulgence that can be applied only to the souls in purgatory. The faithful can receive this indulgence each of the eight days to apply to a particular soul — a parent, spouse, relative, friend, or anyone even unknown.
1) Pray At a Cemetery or in our Memorial Garden
The Church asks the faithful to visit a cemetery and pray for the deceased, even if only mentally. Some suggested prayers include the Prayer of St. Gertrude or the Eternal Rest prayer.
2) Go to Confession and receive Holy Communion
In order for one to obtain a plenary indulgence, whether it be for the poor souls or for oneself, the person must detach oneself from all sin. If the soul is not detached, a partial indulgence will be applied.
However, for the sick, elderly, homebound, or those who cannot go out due to coronavirus restrictions, they can “unite themselves spiritually to other members of the faithful.”
The Church encourages this prayer “before an image of Jesus or the Blessed Virgin Mary, reciting pious prayers for the deceased, for example, Lauds and Vespers of the Office of the Dead, the Marian Rosary, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, other prayers for the deceased dearest to the faithful, or occupy themselves in considered reading of one of the Gospel passages proposed by the liturgy of the deceased, or perform a work of mercy by offering to God the sorrows and hardships of their own lives.”
The individual must also have “the intention of complying as soon as possible,” to the three conditions (sacramental confession, holy communion, and praying for the Holy Father).
3) Pray for the Pope
The Church suggests that the faithful pray one ‘Our Father’ and one ‘Hail Mary’ for the Holy Father.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let the perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in peace. Amen.
Holy Souls Box
During November we customarily keep the memories of our Beloved Dead in our prayers. Their names will be placed under the Altar by using one of the envelopes at the back of church (please add your Gift Aid number) and placing it in the box provided, including an offering if you can, for Holy Souls Masses. In this way, we present them to God in the Masses and Offices during this month of the Holy Souls.