We're encouraging all Catholics in the Archdiocese to obtain a plenary indulgence in this Holy Year 2025.

Obtaining a Plenary Indulgence this Holy Year

A plenary indulgence is a grace granted by the Church which cleanses our soul and helps us to grow closer to God.

When we sin, we not only damage our relationship with God, we create a need for healing and repair in our souls. Through Reconciliation, God forgives our sins, but the effects of our sins may still need to be addressed.

Indulgences are a beautiful practice combining prayer, good works and spiritual renewal, to help repair that damage.

You can gain an Indulgence by making a pilgrimage or visit:‍

Within our Diocese, at one of two locations:

• St Mary's Catholic Cathedral, Broughton Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3JR.
• Schoenstatt Scotland Retreat Centre, Kentenich Way, Campsie Glen, G66 7AT.

To Rome: to one of the four Papal Basilicas and their Holy Doors.

Elsewhere in the World: Jubilee Shrines in Italy and the Holy Land.

By performing works of mercy, formation and penance:

‍Extraordinary Works of Mercy include:

• Visiting prisoners, the sick, lonely or elderly.
• Helping those who are in need.
• Giving a generous gift of your time or money.

Diocesan or parish formation:

• Participating in spiritual exercises.
• Formation activities on the documents of the Second Vatican Council or Catechism.‍

Fasting from futile distractions, abstaining for at least one day a week from:

• Social media.
• Video games.
• Digital apps.
• Television.

If someone isn't able to do these things due to sickness or other serious reasons then, united in spirit with the faithful taking part in person, they may recite the Our Father, Apostles Creed and Jubilee Prayer, offering the sufferings or hardships of their lives.

What Must I Do?

• Be detached from all sin.
• Make a Sacramental Confession.
• Receive Holy Communion.
• Pray for the Pope’s Intentions: The Our Father and Profession of Faith are suggested for the Jubilee Year.

Normally, only one plenary indulgence can be obtained per day. However, the members of the faithful who have carried out an act of charity on behalf of the souls in purgatory, if they receive Holy Communion a second time that day, can obtain the plenary indulgence twice on the same day (this applies only to the deceased).

A single sacramental confession is sufficient for several plenary indulgences, but frequent sacramental confession is encouraged in order to obtain the grace of deeper conversion and purity of heart. For each plenary indulgence that is sought, however, a separate Holy Communion and a separate prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father are required.

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