The Sacrament of Reconciliation

Historically, the Sacrament of Reconciliation evolves from the sacrament of “Last Rites” or anointing of the sick. Each or these sacraments offer the prayers of the church, forgiveness of sins and restoration of grace and the relationship between God and the faithful.

The Sacrament which is now known as “Anointing of the Sick” was established as a renewal of the grace received in baptism, and the forgiveness of sins. It was almost exclusively offered at the time of death. This ‘second chance’ helped to move the faithful from the practice of waiting until they were near death to receive baptism. They wanted to have the fullness of grace so that they could go to heaven.

Reconciliation looks very different from its original practice. Following in the pattern established for receiving adults into the church at Easter- and the penance and sacrifice of lent- faithful seeking renewal in grace could enter into a Lenten season of sacrifice and penance, including public declaration of the sin they hoped to overcome. Then at Easter they could return to the sacrament of the Eucharist.

Most are probably grateful that the sacrament has evolved from this earliest stage. The sacrament is no longer seen as a lengthy public recanting of sinful behavior. Our understanding has grown to see the sacrament as an opportunity for grace and healing. It has also developed so that the faithful are encouraged to make frequent use of the sacrament to remain in a constant relationship of Grace with God.

Just as with the Sacrament of Anointing, it is helpful for us to think of the Sacrament of Reconciliation as an opportunity for healing. At the center is the power of Christ to provide healing and forgiveness of sins.

The penitent prayerfully reflects on their need for God’s mercy, humbles themselves before God and the church, makes an examination of conscience and an accounting of their sins. The confessor offers spiritual council and offers a penance.

Penance is a chance to enter into prayer and to seek God’s assistance in avoiding sin in the future. I sometimes prefer the word reparation- the chance to set things right with God and the Church (the living community of the faithful- the Body of Christ).

In the recent history of the Church, many have moved away from frequent individual celebration of the sacrament. This is an unfortunate reality. I believe it has contributed to a lack of understanding of the nature of sin and its presence in our lives.

While in Seminary, I was given a great image for the Sacrament – from the perspective of the priest/confessor- that I continue to think about to this day. The priest thinks about their role in the Sacrament of Reconciliation as ‘having a front row seat as the Holy Spirit works in the penitent’s life and draws them closer to God’s grace.’

The image is by no means perfect but it reflects the humbling experience of bringing others to the grace and forgiveness God so freely gives in Jesus Christ.