By decree dated 3/19/2020 and issued by the Holy See, the Apostolic Penitentiary of the Catholic Church has granted the following special indulgences for the present global pandemic situation:
- Plenary indulgence to those with COVID-19 under quarantine, if with detachment from sin they unite themselves virtually in the Holy Mass, the recitation of the Rosary, the Via Crucis, or other forms of devotion; or if, at least, they recite the Creed, the Pater Noster, and a pious invocation to the Blessed Virgin Mary, offering this trial in a spirit of faith in God and in charity towards their brethren, with the intention of fulfilling the usual conditions (sacramental confession, communion, and prayers for the Holy Father) as soon as it is possible;
- Plenary indulgence as per #1 for all healthcare workers, relatives, and others presently taking care of those affected by COVID-19 and at risk of contagion;
- Plenary indulgence, under the same conditions as #1, for all the faithful who, given the present pandemic situation, offer their visit to the Blessed Sacrament or Eucharistic Adoration, or the reading of Scripture for half an hour, or recite the Rosary, or recite the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, to implore Almighty God to end this pandemic, relieve the suffering of those with COVID-19, and the eternal salvation of those who have died;
- Plenary indulgence at the point of death for all the faithful, who are unable to receive the Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites, as long as they are suitably disposed and have been in the habit of reciting some kind of prayer during their life. The usual three conditions are supplied by the Church. It is recommended to use a Cross or Crucifix while asking [God] for this indulgence (Enchiridion indulgentiarium, #12).
This present decree is valid despite any possible contrary dispositions.
