A Plenary Indulgence for the 800th Anniversary of the Approval of the Rule of St. Francis

This Christmas season, Catholics can receive a plenary indulgence by praying in front of a nativity scene located in a Franciscan church which includes our very own, St. Francis of Assisi. The indulgence will be available from December 8th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, through February 2, 2024, the Feast of the Presentation in the Temple of our Lord Jesus Christ. Those wishing to receive the indulgence must pray in front of a nativity scene at a Franciscan church. 
 
On October 4 many Catholics gathered at the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the approval of the Rule of St. Francis. As part of the celebration, the Conference of the Franciscan Family, which oversaw the gathering, announced that they were asking Pope Francis to grant an indulgence for any Catholic who prayed in front of a Nativity scene at a Franciscan church.
 
The pope accepted the request, acknowledging that Catholics will be able to receive a plenary indulgence under normal circumstances.
 
A plenary indulgence is a grace granted by the Catholic Church that removes the temporal punishment due to sin. In order to receive this indulgence, one must have a detachment from all sin, including venial; receive the Holy Eucharist and the sacrament of confession within 20 days of praying in front of a nativity scene. In addition, those attempting to receive the indulgence must pray for the intentions of the Holy Father.
 
“We ask you to share this “privilege” in all our locations, which fits in well with the special relationship that was established between Saint Francis and the Church when he asked the Pope for the indulgence of those who visited the Porziuncola, and we hope that it will be an opportunity for communion and spiritual renewal for every brother and sister. in the entire Franciscan family,” said the conference in a statement.
 
In 1223, St. Francis created the first nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, to marvel at the mystery of the incarnation.


St. Francis of Assisi Parish in New Orleans will have a special First Saturday Mass to fulfill the requirements for this indulgence on January 6, 2024 at 8AM. All are invited to attend this mass.