Plenary Indulgence

A Path to Renewal and Grace

As a Minor Basilica, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is a Sacred Indulgence Site

The plenary indulgence is a priceless gift of divine mercy that allows the faithful to experience the fullness of God’s forgiveness and healing.

What Is a Plenary Indulgence?

A plenary indulgence is a remission of all temporal punishment due to sin, granted by the Church through the merits of Christ, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Communion of Saints. It is an invitation to conversion, healing and a deeper relationship with Christ. Pope Francis has described indulgences as a “Jubilee grace” that reveals God’s limitless mercy.


How to Receive a Plenary Indulgence:

The faithful can obtain a plenary indulgence at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. To obtain a plenary indulgence at a minor basilica, a Catholic must devoutly visit the church on one of the designated days and meet all of the universal conditions for receiving an indulgence. A plenary indulgence is a remission of all temporal punishment due to sin, which has already been forgiven. 


Universal Conditions for a Plenary Indulgence

A Catholic must be in a state of grace and have the intention of gaining the indulgence. For the indulgence to be plenary, the following conditions must also be met, ideally on the same day as the visit to the basilica: 

  • State of grace and detachment from sin: The person must be in a state of grace and have a complete detachment from all sin, including venial sin.
  • Sacramental Confession: A person must go to confession within about 20 days before or after performing the indulgenced work. One confession is sufficient for multiple plenary indulgences, but other conditions must be repeated for each one.
  • Receive the Eucharist: One must receive Holy Communion for each plenary indulgence received.
  • Pray for the Pope's intentions: The person must pray for the intentions of the Holy Father. Reciting one Our Father and one Hail Mary is suggested. 


Special Opportunities at a Minor Basilica

Minor basilicas offer several days throughout the year when a plenary indulgence is granted to those who visit and fulfill the other conditions. During the visit, the faithful must participate in a sacred rite or, at a minimum, recite the Lord's Prayer and the Creed. The specific dates include: 

  • The anniversary of the granting of the title of minor basilica (June 21).
  • The solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29).
  • The anniversary of the basilica's dedication (December 8).
  • The day of the liturgical celebration of the church's title (December 8), the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.
  • A day determined by the local ordinary.
  • Once a year on a day chosen freely by the individual faithful.