The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 203: The Purpose of Indulgences (2025)
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Jul 22, 2025 Fr. Mike delves into the intriguing concept of indulgences and the Church's authority over them. He sheds light on the vital role of the Communion of Saints in enhancing our spiritual journey. Moreover, the discussion reveals how the merits of Christ and saints contribute to a collective treasury that aids both the living and the departed. Additionally, the importance of the sacrament of penance is examined, including its liturgical structure and communal aspects that foster unity among believers.
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Communion of Saints' Powerful Unity
- The communion of saints connects believers across heaven, purgatory, and earth in a perpetual exchange of charity and holiness.
- The holiness of one benefits others more than sin harms them, revealing a profound unity in the mystical body of Christ.
Church's Authority on Indulgences
- Indulgences remove temporal punishment for sin through church-approved spiritual acts.
- The church has authority from Christ to open the treasury of merits to believers for indulgences.
Indulgence Misunderstandings Clarified
- Indulgences require spiritual acts like prayer, confession, Communion, and prayer for the Pope.
- The church never approved selling indulgences; scandals arose from misunderstandings and abuses.
