DETROIT — For those who are properly disposed, a plenary indulgence is available for those attending or participating in the beatification Mass of Fr. Solanus Casey in person or by broadcast. An indulgence is the removal of the temporal penalties due to sin after a sin has been forgiven.

The requirements for receiving this indulgence are spelled out by the Archdiocese of Detroit’s Office of Christian Worship: The Apostolic See has granted a request of Archbishop Vigneron that a plenary and partial indulgence be available on the occasion of the Beatification Mass of Fr. Solanus Casey. This plenary indulgence can be for one’s self or souls in purgatory.

A plenary indulgence is granted for those who will assist in the entirety of the Beatification Mass, whether by physical attendance or by broadcast of the Mass in same way they would if they were physically present (i.e.

, responding, singing, observing silence, etc. and making a Spiritual Communion). For those who, for whatever reason, can only participate in a portion of the Mass, whether physically or by broadcast, the partial indulgence can be gained.

The conditions for receiving the indulgence are:The above-explained participation in the Beatification Mass

Sacramental Confession on the day of or on the days before or after the Beatification; for those physically present, receiving Sacramental Confession at the Beatification Mass (Confessors will be present) fulfills the condition.

Reception of Holy Communion at Mass on the day of or the days before or after the Beatification; for those physically present, receiving Holy Communion at the Beatification Mass fulfills the condition.

Prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father; you can join your prayer to that of the Holy Father through praying the suggested prayers of one Our Father and one Hail Mary.

Resolution to be completely detached from all sin

For those who will participate in the broadcast of the Mass, Spiritual Communion consists of lifting your heart and mind to God and inviting Jesus to come into your heart, and pray:O Jesus, I truly believe that You are present in the Most Blessed Sacrament. I love You, and I desire You to come to me. Though I cannot receive You now sacramentally, Come into my heart spiritually, and fill me with Your love, embrace me, and absorb my mind. May the Sweet power of your love burn within my heart, mind, and soul forever and ever. Amen

A primer on indulgences

There are many myths and misconceptions attached to the ancient Catholic practice of indulgences. For a primer on indulgences, see this guide from Catholic Answers.