Indulgences

Indulgences are a practice in the Catholic Church where a person can receive a reduction of punishment for sins, either for themselves or for a deceased loved one. Historically, this meant that people could reduce time in purgatory—an intermediate state before entering heaven. Indulgences became controversial, especially during the Reformation, when some critics argued they were being misused for financial gain. The Church teaches that indulgences are granted through certain acts of faith, such as prayer, charity, or participation in specific celebrations, rather than simply buying forgiveness.