The Camino de Santiago is renowned not only for its cultural richness and connection with nature but also for its profound spiritual significance. For Catholic pilgrims, this journey offers an opportunity to reflect, renew faith, and find inner peace. A lesser-known yet equally fascinating aspect of the pilgrimage is the daily Plenary Indulgence granted at the Cathedral of Lugo. Unlike in Santiago de Compostela, where one must wait for a Holy Year to obtain it, in Lugo, this privilege is available every day.
The reigning Pope is responsible for granting and, if necessary, renewing the privileges of the Plenary Indulgence
What is a Plenary Indulgence?
A Plenary Indulgence is the complete remission of temporal punishment for sins that have already been confessed and absolved. In Catholic tradition, receiving this indulgence signifies an act of reconciliation and spiritual purification, allowing the believer to draw closer to God and be freed from the consequences of sin.
Typically, Plenary Indulgences are associated with special dates or specific acts of devotion. However, what makes the Cathedral of Lugo unique is that this privilege can be obtained every day of the year. This extraordinary feature makes the city a must-visit destination for those seeking a profound spiritual experience on their Camino de Santiago.
The Cathedral of Lugo and the Blessed Sacrament
The daily Plenary Indulgence privilege is directly linked to the Cathedral of Santa María de Lugo, known for its special veneration of the Blessed Sacrament. While there isn’t complete historical evidence pinpointing the exact year, it is from the 15th century that the Blessed Sacrament has been perpetually exposed in this cathedral, making it one of the few churches worldwide with this uninterrupted practice. The perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is the spiritual heart of Lugo and a testament to the living faith that characterizes this city.
Blessed Sacrament at the Cathedral of Lugo
Since when has Lugo had the Plenary Indulgence privilege?
The Plenary Indulgence at the Cathedral of Lugo was granted in 1860 when José Ríos Lamadrid was the bishop of Lugo. According to the cathedral’s chapter archive, Pope Pius IX granted a monthly Plenary Indulgence to those who confessed, received communion, and visited the Blessed Sacrament.
Years later, in 1867, Bishop Ríos Lamadrid returned to Rome and requested from Pope Pius IX the extension of the indulgence to those who received communion in the cathedral. Finally, the Pope granted a perpetual Plenary Indulgence to all the faithful who received communion in the cathedral on any day of the year.
The first testimonies about the Plenary Indulgence appear around the 11th century, although there are older antecedents
More recently, in 2016, Bishop Alfonso Carrasco presented the chapter archive documentation to the Holy See and requested the renewal of this privilege. The request was accepted by decree of the Apostolic Penitentiary on October 10, 2016.
How to obtain the Plenary Indulgence in Lugo
To receive the daily Plenary Indulgence at the Cathedral of Lugo, the following conditions must be met, according to the norms established by the Catholic Church:
- Sacramental Confession: Pilgrims must confess to be in a state of grace. The confession can be made before arriving in Lugo or at the cathedral itself, where specific times are allocated for this sacrament.
- No intention to sin again, even venially.
- Eucharistic Communion: It is necessary to participate in the Eucharist and receive communion. The Cathedral of Lugo offers several daily Masses, facilitating the fulfillment of this requirement.
- Prayer for the Pope’s intentions: As an act of unity with the universal Church, one must pray for the Holy Father’s intentions. Recommended prayers usually include the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be.
- Devout visit to the Blessed Sacrament: Since the Blessed Sacrament is perpetually exposed in the cathedral, this act becomes the center of the spiritual experience in Lugo.
In Lugo you can receive the Plenary Indulgence, as well as enjoy (without sinning) the city
Lugo on the Camino Primitivo
The city of Lugo is located on the Camino Primitivo, one of the oldest and most spiritual routes of the Camino de Santiago, with an interesting history. This itinerary, connecting Oviedo with Santiago de Compostela, features Lugo as a prominent stop, not only because of its cathedral but also due to its impressive Roman wall, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The combination of cultural heritage and spiritual opportunities makes Lugo an unmissable point of interest.
Tips for pilgrims in Lugo
If you’re planning to include Lugo in your Camino de Santiago, here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
- Check Mass schedules: The cathedral has several Mass times throughout the day. Plan your visit to attend one and receive communion.
- Explore the city: Besides the cathedral, don’t miss the Roman wall, the thermal baths, and Lugo’s historic center, which offer a rich cultural and gastronomic experience.
- Reflect and rest: Lugo is an ideal place to pause on your journey, reflect on your pilgrimage, and renew your energy before continuing.
Enjoying the Primitive Way is rewarded with the Plenary Indulgence
A spiritual gift for all pilgrims
The daily Plenary Indulgence at the Cathedral of Lugo is a unique spiritual treasure that adds a special dimension to the Camino de Santiago. Whether you’re seeking to deepen your faith, find a moment of inner peace, or simply enjoy Lugo’s historical and cultural richness, this city awaits you with open arms.
If you’re traveling the Camino Primitivo or planning a variant of your route, such as the Vía Künig, don’t hesitate to end the corresponding stage in Lugo. Here, you’ll find not only a milestone in your pilgrimage but an experience that will remain etched in your heart long after you’ve reached Santiago de Compostela.
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