31/07/2026
The Pardon of Assisi, also known as the Indulgence of the Porziuncola, is one of the most significant traditions of Franciscan spirituality. Its origin is linked to Saint Francis of Assisi, who, according to tradition, was praying in the Porziuncola in 1216 when he experienced a vision of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. On that occasion, he asked for a special grace: that anyone who entered that small church with a truly repentant heart might receive a special indulgence as a sign of God's mercy. According to tradition, this request was subsequently approved by Pope Honorius III.
From a historical perspective, the account of the vision belongs to the Franciscan tradition and is not documented in contemporary sources. However, it is certain that by the thirteenth century the privilege of the Porziuncola was already recognized by the Church and was confirmed by subsequent Popes.
Today, the Pardon of Assisi is observed from 12:00 noon on August 1 until midnight on August 2. The faithful may obtain the plenary indulgence by visiting a Franciscan church, receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession), receiving Holy Communion, praying for the intentions of the Pope, and sincerely undertaking a journey of conversion.
More than a simple ritual, the Pardon of Assisi expresses the very heart of Saint Francis' message: God's mercy is a gift offered to everyone, without privilege or distinction, and forgiveness is always possible for those who seek it with sincere hearts.
The Pardon of Assisi begins on the morning of August 1 and concludes on the evening of August 2. During these two days, the Porziuncola Indulgence, which is granted at the Porziuncola throughout the year, is extended to all parish churches and Franciscan churches throughout the world.
The most important religious aspect of the Pardon of Assisi—as with every indulgence—is its immense spiritual benefit for the faithful. To receive its graces, the faithful are encouraged to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and to receive Holy Communion. Confession should be preceded and accompanied by sincere repentance for one's sins and by a firm resolve to turn away from evil, striving to live ever more faithfully according to the Gospel, just as all the saints did, especially Saint Francis and Saint Clare, beginning from the very place of the Porziuncola.
The celebration of the Pardon of the Porziuncola remains a manifestation of God's infinite mercy and a sign of the apostolic zeal of Saint Francis of Assisi.
To obtain the Indulgence of the Pardon of Assisi, either for oneself or for the souls of the faithful departed, the following are required:
Sacramental Confession:
Participation in the Holy Mass and reception of the Holy Eucharist;
Renewal of one's profession of faith by reciting the Creed and the Our Father;
Prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father and for the Pope.
CTTRO.🤎
#𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡
