BACKGROUND INFORMATIONThe sacrament of reconciliation, also known as ‘confession’ or ‘penance’, is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. The word ‘reconciliation’ embodies the coming to together of what is fragmented, as such it can be seen as an apology or willingness to forgive and heal. Reconciliation is a sacrament in which Christ forgives a person for their sins after baptism; it comes from the Greek word ‘katallage’ and the Hebrew word ‘shalom’, meaning peace. It involves the confession of ones sins to a priest, hence the term 'confession'. |
Sacraments are the main way in which the religious celebrate their faith and beliefs. This sacraments main focus and celebration is the endlessly forgiving mercy of God and the change of heart of all those who return to God after sin. It also celebrates the intention of the penitent inspired by God's grace in which we are engaged throughout our loves with family, friends and others.
It is also important to briefly acknowledge the relationship between the Eucharist and Reconciliation when preparing children for this Sacrament. To receive the Eucharist or Holy Communion is to be forgiven for your sins. Through the body and blood of Christ we are healed, united with Christ as we are cleansed from past sins and preserving us from future sins, yet there is still the need for private confession through Reconciliation.
It is also important to briefly acknowledge the relationship between the Eucharist and Reconciliation when preparing children for this Sacrament. To receive the Eucharist or Holy Communion is to be forgiven for your sins. Through the body and blood of Christ we are healed, united with Christ as we are cleansed from past sins and preserving us from future sins, yet there is still the need for private confession through Reconciliation.
ORIGINS
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Reconciliation is expressed as a part of the message of Salvation that leads us back to God. Scripture is devoted to God’s great aspiration for the reclamation of all creation, imparting to the sinner the love of God who reconciles. |
Reconciliation has been called the sacrament of conversation because it makes sacramentality (physical representations) present in Jesus’ call to conversation, the first step in returning to God from whom one has strayed by sin.
Jesus began his public work with the proclamation of the kingdom and the call to repentance. A continuous feature of Jesus’ ministry and teachings was his incredible power to confront, but also deal with evil and injustice. Through this sacrament, the Church community continues Jesus’ ministry of forgiveness.
(For further information, please refer to the tabs under 'background).