Portiuncula Indulgence (Small Portion)

From the Proper Offices of Franciscan Saints and Blesseds in the Liturgy of the Hours 
Our Seraphic Father Francis in keeping with his special love for the Blessed Virgin was especially fond of the chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels known as the Portiuncula. It was here in the designs of Divine Providence that he started the Order of Friars Minor, inaugurated the Order of the Poor Clares and brought his sojourn on earth to its end. In this chapel according to tradition our Holy Father obtained the famous indulgence which the Supreme Pontiffs confirmed and extended to many other churches. On account of the many blessings conferred here the celebration of a liturgical feast was granted for this day which marks the anniversary of the dedication of this chapel.

In this church the Order of Friars Minor had its beginning and as their numbers increased a noble structure arose based so to speak on this solid foundation....

Although Francis realized that the kingdom of heaven is found in every dwelling on earth, and though he believed that heaven's graces are imparted everywhere to God's chosen ones, he had learned nevertheless that the church of Saint Mary at Portiuncula was filled with more abundant grace and frequented by heavenly spirits.

History of the Indulgence
In the beginning the indulgence could be gained only in the actual Portiuncula chapel between noon on August 1st and sunset on August 2nd. It evolved considerably through history, until the norms and grants of indulgence was completely reformed after the Second Vatican Council. When Pope Paul II wrote "Indulgentiarum Doctrina" (1967), the indulgence was confirmed and extended in application. The Catholic faithful may now gain the indulgence under the usual conditions:
1. Reconciliation
2. Holy Communion
3. Prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father
4. Devoutly visiting a parish church (any parish, mission parish, or cathedral!)
5. Reciting at least one Our Father and the Creed
6. Free from any attachment to sin renders this indulgence plenary. Otherwise, it is partial according to one's disposition (freedom of attachement).

ALSO, don't forget that this indulgence is applicable to the Souls in Purgatory!!!

Pray for me - I pray for you,
Jillian