Plenary indulgence in the places of worship and pilgrimage established in the journey of faith of the “Ora viene il bello” initiative. This initiative will be active, in the Italian sanctuaries that have chosen to participate, for the months of June, July and August and until September 17th, the day of the “Pilgrimage of the Gods”.
The National Office for the Pastoral Care of Leisure, Tourism and Sport of the Italian Episcopal Conference has included the “Ora viene il bello” initiative within the “Night of the Sanctuaries”, in order to “create generative experiences of tourism and religious hospitality, of pilgrimages and journeys of faith, activating virtuous collaborations with bodies, associations and companies for the valorization and relaunch of the territories”, as can be read from the Cei press release.
To date, there are already 25 sacred places, including churches and sanctuaries, that will open their doors to pilgrims, allowing them to receive the plenary indulgence, with the usual methods, namely:
– sacramental confession;
– eucharistic communion;
– prayer according to the intention of the Supreme Pontiff.
The places are scattered throughout the Italian territory from the north, from the Madonna del Bosco in Imbersago, descending to the center at the Divino Amore in Rome, to reach the south of the peninsula with Santa Maria De Finibus Terrae in Santa Maria di Leuca.
Anyone who is unable to reach these places, due to illness or other reasons, will be able to take advantage of the blessed gift of plenary indulgence, by performing acts of piety or offering their sufferings to the Lord. The practice was recognized by means of the decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary, by the will of Pope Francis, signed by Cardinal Mauro Piacenza, Major Penitentiary. By way of suffrage, the souls of the deceased will also be able to enjoy the indulgence.
With the “Ora viene il bello” (Now the good times come) initiative, the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI) wanted to provide not only the opportunity for spiritual regeneration, but also the possibility for interested Christian communities to offer invigorating and relaxing experiences, which are fundamental in this period of great tension.
In addition to the discovery of sacred places and their hospitality, the opportunity to share moments of prayer, listening, and meditation on the Word of God will also be provided. We are emerging from the pandemic, and there is a desire and will to return to “look towards the light,” towards hope and the future. And what better way, if not through an inspired pilgrimage, towards places and communities that will commit themselves precisely to providing such necessary confidence.
