FAITH OF ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

  Sacrament of Reconciliation By Edward Matulanya  The Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation) Definition and Meaning of Sacrament of Reconciliation The Sacrament of Penance, also known as Reconciliation or Confession, is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. Through it, the faithful receive forgiveness for sins committed after baptism, are reconciled with God and the Church, and are strengthened by divine grace for their Christian journey. Different names of Sacrament of Reconciliation  The different names of the sacrament emphasize distinct dimensions: Penance stresses conversion and satisfaction. Confession highlights the acknowledgment of sins to a priest. Reconciliation underlines restored communion with God and the Church. Forgiveness points to the merciful pardon received (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, §§1423–1424). Scriptural Foundations of Sacrament of Reconciliation  Catholic teaching bases this sacrament on Christ’s authority g...