Let’s return to the topic of the Pope’s Apostolic Blessing—that is, a blessing bestowed by the Holy Father that grants a plenary indulgence to those who request it. So, if you want to celebrate the wedding or wedding anniversary of your friends and relatives with a special gift, here’s how to do it.
As we mentioned in this article, obtaining this particular type of blessing is not impossible; one must meet the necessary requirements, namely, being a believer and a practicing member of the faith. In some cases, in addition to these basic qualifications, a document of confirmation from a parish priest or other church official may be required.
How to Apply
The request may be submitted through the Office of Papal Charities in the following ways:
- Online: By visiting the official website, you can select the type of scroll you’d like to use and proceed with your donation. It’s all just a click away.
- In person: Among the various options, you can request the Pope’s Apostolic Blessing and the parchment itself directly at the Offices of the Office of Papal Charities. These offices are located inside the Sant’Anna Entrance (to the right of the Colonnade in St. Peter’s Square) and are open from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (Monday through Saturday).
- By Mail or Fax: If you prefer to use digital methods, you can submit your request (form available here) containing all the necessary information:
- Applicant’s first and last name;
- First and last name of the recipient of the blessing;
- Reason for the request;
- Date, Name of the Church, and Location where the sacrament took place;
- Address to which the diploma should be mailed and the corresponding payment amount.
All of this should be forwarded to:
Apostolic Almoner’s Office
Scroll Office
00120 Vatican City
Or by fax (available 24 hours a day): (+39) 06.69883132
Costs
The cost of the Pope’s Apostolic Blessing is broken down as follows:
- parchment (from 13 to 25 euros, depending on the model chosen);
- Shipping costs: 7 euros for standard mail / 13 euros for express courier service (DHL).
The bid must be submitted only and exclusively after receiving the scroll and may be paid by postal money order (enclosed with the shipment) or online via credit or debit card.
Are all anniversaries acceptable?
As we mentioned earlier, not all celebrations related to the sacraments are eligible for this type of blessing. In the case of wedding anniversaries, you may request the parchment if you are celebrating your 10th (aluminum), 25th (silver), 40th (ruby), 50th (golden), or 60th (diamond) wedding anniversary.
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