Enchiridion · Grant 14 §2; Norm 15
Devout use of a blessed devotional object
Devoutly use a blessed crucifix, cross, rosary, scapular, or medal.
Time required Duration of the devout use of the blessed object
- When
- Any day
- Where
- No special location prescribed
- Who
- All eligible faithful
- Application
- Self or the departed
The prescribed work
- Use one of the five qualifying kinds of object.
- It must be properly blessed by a priest or deacon.
- Devout use is required; merely possessing the object is not the work described.
The work and its conditions
The general requirements include at least a general intention, the state of grace by the completion of the work, and a contrite heart. Complete the work as prescribed.
Conditions common to every indulgence
The person gaining an indulgence must be baptized, not excommunicated, and in the state of grace at least when the prescribed works are completed. There must be at least a general intention to gain indulgences, and the prescribed work must be performed at the time and in the manner required by the grant.
Read the full conditions and norms. The cited grant and its specific provisions govern.
Time required
Read each branch with its own conditions. An editorial estimate is not a prescribed minimum.
Prescribed work
Duration varies
Duration of the devout use of the blessed object
No fixed number of minutes is prescribed. Use differs between a cross, rosary, scapular or medal; possession alone is not the indulgenced work.
What the time estimate excludes
- Ordinary travel to and from the venue, and waiting outside the prescribed work
- Preparation and separately fulfilled sacramental conditions, except where the prescribed work itself includes Communion or a liturgical celebration
Source and exact reference
- Enchiridion indulgentiarum, fourth edition (1999)14 §2; Norm 15
- Manual of Indulgences, approved USCCB English edition (2006), hosted copy14 §2; Norm 15
Prayer texts and grants have separate source histories. Consult the grant source for the prescribed work, occasion, and conditions.