Basilica: Plenary Indulgences
What is a plenary indulgence and how can one be gained at the Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton?
The word indulgence (Lat. indulgentia), originally meant kindness or favor. In post-classic Latin, it came to mean the remission of a tax or debt. In theological language, the word is sometimes employed in its primary sense to signify the kindness and mercy of God. But in a special sense in which it is here considered, an indulgence is a remission of the temporal punishment due to sin, the guilt of which has been forgiven.
Join Us:
The Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
333 South Seton Avenue
Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727
Phone: 301-447-6606
Days on which the faithful may gain a Plenary Indulgence:
January 4 - Feast of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
February 13 - Anniversary of the Granting of the Title of Basilica 1991
May 1 - Anniversary of the dedication of the Chapel 1965
June 29 - Solemnity of the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul
September - The Sunday nearest to September 14, the date of her canonization in 1975
Open Date - Once a year on a day chosen by each of the faithful.
In order to gain a Plenary Indulgence on any of the above days are:
- Make a prayerful visit to the Basilica to participate in a sacred rite, or at least to recite the Lord’s Prayer and Creed.
- Receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion within eight days before or after the visit.
- Pray for the intentions of the Pope.
More about the Basilica
Upcoming Events
Emmitsburg Community Day
On Saturday, June 30, from 9 am to 5 pm, Emmitsburg will celebrate its annual Community Day. This year, the Shrine will hold the Seton Heritage Expo on our grounds. The event will feature Civil War reenactors, heritage demonstrations, living historians tours, children’s activities, and more. Read More
Songs from the Camps, A FREE Civil War Picnic Concert
The distinctive down-home sounds of banjos, fiddles, tambourines and mandolins, which entertained soldiers on the battlefield camps, will fill the air on Sunday, July 8 at the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton as two Civil War era bands perform a FREE picnic concert on our grounds. The concert will feature the Hancock String Band and the 2nd South Carolina String Band, both acclaimed for playing authentic Civil War era music. Read More
Annual Seton Legacy Classic Golf Tournament
Are you ready to play some golf, socialize with local VIPs and businesses, and just have some good-hearted fun! Join us on Sunday, June 24 at 1:30 pm at The Links at Gettysburg for our annual Seton Legacy Classic golf tournament. Read More
Civil War Tours
Take a guided tour to learn how the the Sisters and Daughters of Charity served the soldiers during the war that divided our nation, and visit the site where Union officers conducted a war council to prepare for the battle of Gettysburg. Read More
News & Events
Summer Renovations and Revised Shrine Hours
You are visiting the National Shrine of Elizabeth Ann Seton at a very special time – a time of growth, a time of expansion, and a time of inspiration. Our roots in this Valley of Blessings, as Mother Seton referred to this area, are deep and strong – deep from the years of history that took place here and strong from the enduring legacy of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Our mission is to promote the life and legacy of the Elizabeth Ann Seton as a source of inspiration and encouragement for all people. As part of this mission we are expanding our spiritual and historical enrichment programs for all ages, pilgrimages, retreats, and workshops. Our museum will also be expanding its historical exhibits and offerings. All of this expansion results in the need to grow physically as well as spiritually! Much growth has already taken place and there is more to be done. As part of this growth, the HVAC system is being replaced in part of our facility, which includes the Basilica and some of the Museum areas. We appreciate your understanding during our time of growth, and it is our utmost priority to provide a comfortable and memorable visit for our patrons. Many of the areas are unaffected by the HVAC construction, and they will be cool and ready for you to visit! Read More
