Last year the Vatican announced that due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, that indulgences typically granted on behalf of the dead would be extended beyond the week of All Souls Day observances. This year, the same announcement has been made. If you were unable to pray for the souls of your family and friends, and those who do not have someone praying on their behalf, the limits of November 1-8 have been extended through November 30, 2021.
To gain the indulgence, you must pray in a cemetery, church, or an oratory an Our Father and the Creed. Within 20 days, prior or following, you must have received the sacraments of reconciliation as well as the Eucharist, allowing for a full detachment of sin. These graces will extend from you to the souls in purgatory whom you are praying for. If you cannot leave your home or care facility, then you are permitted to pray in front of a picture or statue of Jesus or the Blessed Mother.
Some of the prayers we can say for the dead are the following: The Rosary, Devine Mercy Chaplet, The Office of the Dead, lauds, vespers, personal favorite prayers of the deceased, preforming a work of mercy and offering it up on the behalf of the discomfort of those in purgatory, among other prayers for the dead and offering a mass or adoration hour on their behalf.
“O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fire of hell, lead all souls to heaven, especially those who are in most need of Thy mercy.”
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