Well, I just taught a class on it, so I suppose I could say something. I suppose it's one of the most misunderstood concepts of Roman Catholic theology - even most Catholics don't seem to understand it.

If we believe in a loving God, I think forgiving goes right alongside that love. Sorry, but I can't believe in a vengeful God. "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" is good reading, but that's not the kind of God I've experienced. Vengance seems to come from people, not God.

So, if my understanding of God is valid, God forgives us for whatever we do, and will continue to love us. The granting of forgiveness is only part of the process, however. The wrongdoer has to admit or "confess" to it - taking responsibility for it. Then, something has to be done to attempt to correct the wrongdoing or to reconcile with the person who was harmed. After that, the wrongdoer has to figure out a way to avoid doing the same thing again. Forgiveness is meaningless unless we acknowledge responsibility for what we've done and resolve to try not to do it again.

That's basically what happens in the Roman Catholic Sacrament of Reconciliation (formerly "Penance" or "Confession"). "Absolution" is a blessing the priest says that acknowledges that the process has been completed, and reminds the person of God's love and forgiveness. "Absolution" is a powerful expression of God's forgiveness - but the forgiveness comes from God, not the priest.

If it's done honestly, I think the Sacrament of Reconciliation has some sound psychological and moral benefits. It requires people to take responsibility for what they do, but it also lifts the burden of guilt that can paralyze them in despair. It also requires people to make a resolution to do better. The formal process also forces people to make a committment by saying out loud what they've done and what they intend to do about it.

OK, class, there will be a test on Friday. Note that this Friday is Good Friday and Friday the Thirteenth. I advise you not to cheat.

-Fr. JoeBro-