Sacrament of Reconciliation
The Sacrament of ReconciliationAnother term for confession. This is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church., otherwise known as confession, is one of the seven sacraments in the Catholic Church and is usually first received at the age of seven or eight before First Holy CommunionThe first time someone receives the Eucharist. In the Catholic Church, this is usually at the age of seven or eight..
Through this sacrament, the individual will seek absolution The formal act of forgiving someone for their wrongs or sins. from their sins by asking for forgiveness and carrying out penanceVoluntary act of punishment to show regret for a wrongdoing..
When the sacrament is received, the priest, who is acting on behalf of God, will forgive the sins that have been confessed. A penance will then be given which may consist of:
- prayers
- an act of kindness
- reparationRepairing the damage done through crime.
- both an act of kindness and reparation
The principle is that the person confessing the sins promises to try and not commit the sin again.
This sacrament can be received as often as considered necessary. There is no maximum number of times that the sacrament can be received.