February 13, 2009

"When a Coin in the Coffer Rings ..."

"A soul from purgatory springs." Or, at least, so says the Roman Catholic Church. You thought the Roman Catholics had ceased the soul-killing offer of forgiveness of sins by means of good works, nice donations, and a handsome little certificate handed out by the bishop? Think again.

Indulgences are back. They aren't exactly get out of hell free cards. You can get out of hell, they say ... just not for free. Yes, yes, it is true: Indulgences can no longer actually be purchased. "But charitable contributions, combined with other acts can help you earn one."

Settle down now. Don't get too excited yet. There is, as always, a catch. You can only get one indulgence, per person, per day. But with the economy the way it is, who knows? If you get in a real jam, and can produce enough cash (err, charitable donations), you may be able to do a little bargaining!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Oh wow! Indulgences are the very thing that Luthor advocated against. I don't think that faith& good works& charitable donations are a "get out of hell free" card.