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1st and 2nd Centuries
- Baptisms forgives the former sinner.- After Baptism, there is no absolution given for serious sin.- Forgiveness could only be received once in a lifetime- Hope of forgiveness for serious sin rests with the judgment of God.
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From 300 onwards penance became:
- Public and communal, this linked to the celebration of the Eucharist.- Once in a lifetime - Necessary for only 3 sins giving up the faith, committing murder, breaking the marriage vow.- The ritual of Forgiveness was reserved for MAJOR sins and can be withheld for 3 – 15 years.- Excommunication – (Partial exclusion of a catholic from the life of the church), not allowed to receive of administer the sacrament.
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From 400 to 600
- Private penance was developed by Irish Monks- Penances were listed to explain in “Penitential book”- Penance could be given many times during a lifetime- Questions arose about whether penance should be private or public
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From 1000 to 2000
- A pattern for Reconciliation developed - Confession – Person sins to priest - Contrition – person is genuinely sorry- Absolution-Priest offers forgiveness on behalf of God- Satisfaction-under direction of priest person does something to atone/mend damage caused
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16th Century
- The council of Trent, confession of penance declared a Sacrament of the church
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20th Century
- The second Vatican council (1962 – 1965) called for the revision of the Sacrament - The Ancient themes of journey and conversion were reintroduced - In 1973 it was announced, promoting the 3 rites in which it may be celebrated today.- New emphasis on God’s mercy and love and the opportunity it offered- The importance of the community dimension was stressed- Catholics encouraged to have community as well as individual acknowledgement of sin.
- The second Vatican council (1962 – 1965) called for the revision of the Sacrament - The Ancient themes of journey and conversion were reintroduced - In 1973 it was announced, promoting the 3 rites in which it may be celebrated today.- New emphasis on God’s mercy and love and the opportunity it offered- The importance of the community dimension was stressed- Catholics encouraged to have community as well as individual acknowledgement of sin.
