Apostolic blessing

An apostolic blessing (Latin: benedictio apostolica or Papal Blessing (Latin: Benedictio Papalis) is a formalized blessing imparted by the Pope, either directly or by designation through another Catholic bishop sometimes by audience or by written parchment accompanied with a Vatican dry seal. Bishops are empowered to grant it three times a year and any Catholic priest can do so for the sick and the dying.

The apostolic blessing is not to be confused with an episcopal blessing, also known as a Pontifical blessing, which bishops can impart at any time by their own competent authority.

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