Confession and Absolution is the sacramental ministry through which Christians confess sins, receive pastoral counsel, and are reconciled through the Church’s proclamation of divine forgiveness.
Repentance
Genuine confession includes contrition, honest acknowledgment of sin, willingness to amend one’s life, and trust in the mercy of God. A penance may be assigned as spiritual medicine rather than as a purchase of forgiveness.
Seal of confession
The secrecy of sacramental confession is traditionally regarded as inviolable. The confessor acts as a witness and minister of reconciliation, directing the penitent toward healing and renewed communion.