Apostolic Pardon - Definition and Overview

In the Roman Catholic Church, the Apostolic Pardon is an indulgence given for the remission of sins. The Apostolic Pardon is given by a priest, usually along with the Anointing of the Sick - especially in cases where a person is in danger of death. Prior to the Second Vatican Council, the Apostolic Pardon was called the Apostolic Blessing.

According to the church, a person who is properly disposed who receives the Apostolic Pardon gains the complete pardon of all their sins. The Apostolic Pardon also has the effect of pardoning the person of all punishment due for their sins, and prepares the person for immediate entry into Heaven.

Form

The current form of the Apostolic Pardon usually takes one of two forms;

• "Through the holy mysteries of our redemption, may almighty God release you from all punishments in this life and in the life to come. May He open to you the gates of paradise and welcome you to everlasting joy."

• "By the authority which the Apostolic See has given me, I grant you a full pardon and the remission of all your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, + and of the Holy Spirit."

The older form of the Apostolic Blessing is as follows;

• "Ego facultate mihi ab Apostolic Sede tributa, indulgentiam plenariam et remissionem omnium peccatorum tibi concedo et benedico te. In nomine Patris, et Filii, + et Spirtus Sancti, Amen." - "By the Faculty which the Apostolic See has given me, I grant you a plenary indulgence for the remission of all your sins, and I bless you. In the Name of the Father and the Son + and the Holy Sprit. Amen."