Pope Leo XIV is now extending the grace of apostolic blessings to the faithful around the world—an ancient and powerful tradition that continues to unite Catholics with the successor of St. Peter and supports the Church’s mission of charity.
The apostolic blessing is not merely a decorative certificate. It’s a tangible expression of the Church’s prayers and the pope’s spiritual closeness to the faithful during significant milestones in Christian life. According to the Vatican’s Apostolic Almoner’s Office, “obtaining an apostolic blessing is not only a symbolic gesture of communion with the successor of Peter but also direct support for the charitable works the pontiff carries out on behalf of the entire Church.”
This centuries-old practice is accessible through two pathways: in person at the Vatican or online through the Apostolic Almoner’s Office—the only authorized channel for such requests. Those in Rome can enter Vatican City through the Porta di Sant’Anna and visit the office, located just beside the colonnade in St. Peter’s Square. The office is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
For those living abroad, the Vatican offers a digital request process. As outlined on the official website, applicants first select the occasion—such as a baptism, marriage, confirmation, or significant anniversary. Then, they choose a parchment design, input the name of the recipient(s), the date and place of the event, and the sender’s full contact information. Payment is accepted only by Visa or MasterCard, and a confirmation email is sent once the process is complete.
Parchment costs range between 20 and 30 euros ($23–$34 USD), depending on the design, and shipping fees vary by location—from 15 euros ($17) for Italy to 40 euros ($45) for Africa. Processing time is approximately 25 days for pickup in Rome and 30 days for international shipping.
The Vatican has strict guidelines for who may request these blessings and for what occasions. Valid occasions include sacraments such as baptism, first Communion, confirmation, matrimony, holy orders, and religious profession, as well as milestone anniversaries of these events or significant birthdays (e.g., 18, 30, 75, or 100 years). In some cases, such as for birthdays or wedding anniversaries, applicants must submit a “declaration of suitability” confirming that the recipients are practicing Catholics.
Applications submitted via email, fax, or regular mail are not accepted and will be rejected. Only requests made through the official Vatican channels are processed.
Ultimately, requesting an apostolic blessing is more than commemorating a moment. It is a gesture of faith, a prayer offered through the pope, and a charitable contribution to the Church’s work in the world. As the Vatican reminds us, “all proceeds go entirely to the charitable works carried out by this office in the name of the pope to help those most in need.”
