Opus Dei

Plenary indulgences can be obtained in many ways for the duration of the coronavirus epidemic. Along with a simple explanation, here is the text of the decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary, which explains it in detail.

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"It is a time to get our lives back on track with regard to you, Lord, and to others," Pope Francis said in his address prior to presiding over the Eucharistic Adoration and then imparting an extraordinary 'Urbi et Orbi' blessing from Saint Peter's Square.

This papal blessing dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. Over the years, it was eventually extended to the entire Catholic population.​

"Let us all pray together for the sick, for the people who are suffering. We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our pleas — we who are put to the test — and deliver us from every danger. O glorious and blessed Virgin. I thank all Christians, all the men and women of good will who pray at this moment, in unison, whichever religious tradition they belong to."

The documentary about the Crossing of the Pyrenees, produced by Arturo Méndiz, winner of three Goya´s and Oscar nominee, premiers on the feast of saint Joseph, patron of Opus Dei, to whom saint Josemaría had great devotion.

Pope Francis has invited everyone to pray the Lord's Prayer at the same time on Wednesday, March 25, (12 noon Rome time), for an end to the pandemic. He will also give an extraordinary "Urbi et orbi" blessing on Friday, March 27, outside St. Peter's Basilica.

The Conferences of Catholic Bishops for Kenya and for Uganda have recently written to their faithful on measures to be taken in the liturgy during these days.

The Apostolic Penitenciary has announced that "the gift of special Indulgences is granted to the faithful suffering from COVID-19 disease, commonly known as Coronavirus, as well as to health care workers, family members and all those who care for them in any capacity, including through prayer." It also reminds the faithful of the possibility of collective absolution in times of emergency.

The “Holy Land Dialogues” held at the Saxum Visitor Center in Israel is an international colloquium that seeks to foster understanding and dialogue between people of different cultures.