Patrick Madrid gets into a question from Emily in Maine, who’s wondering if she has to pack her bags for Rome to receive a plenary indulgence during the Jubilee Year. 

Here's the Explanation:

Patrick explains that while Rome’s Holy Doors are a major focus during the Jubilee Year, you don’t actually need to fly to the Eternal City to participate. Many dioceses around the world designate their own churches: usually cathedrals or significant shrines, with Holy Doors. So, you can check out your diocesan website to see which local church has been designated.

Once you know where the doors are, you can receive the same plenary indulgence as if you were in St. Peter’s Basilica. 

So, What’s a Plenary Indulgence Anyway?

Patrick gives a quick theology lesson:

A plenary indulgence is the "complete remission of the punishment due to sins that have already been forgiven." It’s like hitting the reset button on your soul’s "penance odometer."

To receive it, you need to:

Be in a state of grace (go to Confession if needed!).

Renounce all attachment to sin: even those sneaky past sins you might secretly still take pride or enjoyment in.

Perform the prescribed act (in this case, passing through a Holy Door).

Receive Communion and pray for the Pope’s intentions (like an Our Father and a Hail Mary).

Patrick makes it clear that detachment from sin doesn’t mean you need to feel it emotionally. It’s an act of the will: a firm decision to reject sin out of true love for God. 

What About Rome?

Emily mentions she’d love to go to Rome (don’t we all?), but it’s just not possible. Patrick assures her that the indulgence she gets at her local Holy Door is just as “full” as the one you’d get in Rome. There’s no "extra holy" indulgence for jetsetters: it’s the same grace whether you’re at St. Peter’s or in Portland, Maine. 

Final Thought:

If you’re dreaming of Rome but stuck at home, don’t sweat it. Holy Doors are popping up all over the world, and the grace is universal. So, grab your diocesan map, check out your nearest Holy Door, and step into the incredible mercy God is offering you this Jubilee Year. 

Hey, maybe pray for a miracle trip to Rome while you’re at it. You never know what door God might open for you, literally!