ATLANTA—Catholics in the Archdiocese of Atlanta can receive a plenary indulgence by visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which will offer special spiritual activities in Lent and throughout the Year of Faith, ending Nov. 24.

According to a Vatican decree, “Plenary indulgence for the temporal punishment of sins, imparted by the mercy of God and applicable also to the souls of deceased faithful, may be obtained by all faithful who, truly penitent, take Sacramental Confession and the Eucharist and pray in accordance with the intentions of the Supreme Pontiff.”

An indulgence may be received by visiting a papal basilica, among other special spiritual sites, and participating in a sacred celebration there. The Basilica, located at 353 Peachtree St., Atlanta, is the only basilica in the Archdiocese of Atlanta.

During the year, believers can obtain an indulgence after attending at least three sermons during the Holy Missions or at least three lessons on the acts of the Vatican Council or the articles of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

And during the Year of Faith, Catholics can visit the baptistery, or other place where they were baptized, and renew their baptismal promises in any legitimate form, to obtain an indulgence.

Among the activities planned at the Basilica:

• Stations of the Cross and exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament during Lent. In addition, a day of reconciliation with the opportunity for the reception of the sacrament of penance will be offered Friday, March 22, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Confessions are heard every Saturday at 4:30 p.m., Sunday at 1 p.m. and Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 11:30 a.m. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is celebrated on Tuesdays, from 12:45 p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
• A series of presentations on the Second Vatican Council will take place on Sundays, at 11:15 a.m.
• Baptismal renewal cards are available at the baptistery for the renewal of faith and signing with holy water.

For Mass times and directions to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, visit the website at www.sacredheartatlanta.org.