Indulgence

Indulgence, in the Roman Catholic Church, remission of the temporal punishment (on earth or in purgatory) that remains due for sin even after confession, absolution, and doing penance. In consideration of prayers and good works, the Church may grant plenary (full) or partial indulgences by administering the merits of Jesus and the saints. Sale of indulgences was denounced by the Protestant reformers, and the abuse was abolished by the Council of Trent.

See also: Trent, Council of.