November is a month that invites Catholics to reflect on the spiritual reality of death, the afterlife, and our relationship to the souls of the departed.
Among the most meaningful ways to participate in this time is by receiving a plenary indulgence, particularly by visiting a Catholic cemetery. But this act is not for one’s own benefit. It is an act of charity, rooted in the Church’s belief in the communion of saints and the power of intercessory prayer.
Understanding what a plenary indulgence is and why it connects us to the souls in purgatory can deepen our spiritual lives. Additionally, the cultural celebration of Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, offers a unique lens through which to reflect on this practice.
What is a plenary indulgence?
A plenary indulgence is the full remission of temporal punishment due for sins that have already been forgiven. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), indulgences are a “remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions.” (CCC 1471)
When we commit sins, we are forgiven through the sacrament of confession but the consequences of our sin, or temporal punishment, still remain. A plenary indulgence removes this punishment, though it requires the person to be free from all attachment to sin, even venial sin. The Church offers indulgences to encourage acts of charity and piety which benefit the faithful and the Church as a whole. These acts can include prayer, works of mercy, and specific pilgrimages or visits to holy sites.
In November, the Church invites Catholics to visit a Catholic cemetery, especially during the first eight days of the month, to receive a plenary indulgence for the souls in purgatory. This act is a form of spiritual charity, praying for the dead, rather than seeking indulgences for oneself. By visiting a cemetery, one can intercede on behalf of the souls in purgatory, helping them in their journey to heaven through prayer and penance.
“The indulgence is granted for the remission of temporal punishment for the benefit of the souls in purgatory, not for personal gain,” notes the catechism.
Why visit a Catholic cemetery?
Visiting a Catholic cemetery during November, especially around All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2), is a traditional way to remember and pray for the dead.
The Church believes the souls of the departed undergo a purification process in purgatory, a temporary state where they are cleansed before entering heaven. Catholics are encouraged to offer prayers, Masses, and indulgences for these souls, who cannot pray for themselves.
By visiting a cemetery and praying for the deceased, Catholics not only fulfill the requirement for a plenary indulgence but also express solidarity with the suffering souls in purgatory. This practice underscores the Church’s belief in the communion of saints which links the faithful on Earth with the Church suffering in purgatory and the Church triumphant in heaven.
November is a powerful month for reflection, prayer, and charity. By participating in the practice of receiving a plenary indulgence through a visit to a Catholic cemetery, we are reminded of our duty to intercede for the souls in purgatory. This act is a profound reminder that the Church is a living communion of saints, united across time and space.
By engaging in prayer practices, Catholics not only fulfill their spiritual obligations but also affirm the communal and charitable nature of the Church, which extends beyond death to the hope of eternal life.
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