Indulgence

[LMP]

But if a priest cannot be present, Holy Mother Church lovingly grants such persons who are rightly disposed a plenary indulgence to be obtained in articulo mortis, at the approach of death, provided they regularly prayed in some way during their lifetime. The use of a crucifix or a cross is recommended in obtaining this plenary indulgence. In such a situation the three usual conditions required in order to gain a plenary indulgence are substituted for by the condition “provided they regularly prayed in some way.” The Christian faithful can obtain the plenary indulgence mentioned here as death approaches (in articulo mortis) even if they had already obtained another plenary indulgence that same day.

It is very very unlikely that a priest will be around when I pass on, but I do believe, God willing, I’ll not be totally alone at the last breath. Hopefully, some family member will be nearby. What do the family members have to do then for this above?

 

[brigid12]

From my understanding, there is nothing that family members need to do - it’s automatic after praying during your life. Obviously, being able to receive Last Rites is preferable, since it’s a surer sign to others. However, if it’s not possible (and I doubt it will be possible here, unless I’ve moved east), it’s not.