What is the definition of Penance and Reconciliation?

Answer 1

The words penance or confession have somewhat negative connotations. Reconciliation is a much more positive description.

Answer 2

Introduction

Well, penance, reconciliation, and confession are all the same thing, just different names for it. Catholics celebrate this sacrament to be free of sin.

What is sin?

Sin is anything that we do wrong. There are two types of sins, venial and mortal. Venial sins are small things, such as lying or hitting. Mortal sins are serious, such as murder. We mustconfess mortal sins, or we are not forgiven. We cannot receive communion until we do. If you do, that is a sin. If you remember a sin, but purposely don't confess it, we are not forgiven.

The Process of Reconciliation

When you go into the confessional, you say hello to the priest (Deacons aren't allowed to hear confessions.) and either sit face-to-face or kneel in front of a screen. You say, "Forgive me Father for I have sinned, it has been ______ (amount of time [estimated]) since my last confession. These are my sins." You tell the priest all the sins you can remember doing. When you are done, you say, "For these and all my sins I am sorry." You pray the Act of Contrition. The priest will then give you absolution, saying, "_______(your name), I absolve you from all your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." You then say, "Amen." The priest will give you something to do to make up for your sins (called penance). You say thank you to the priest and then you exit the confessional.

The Act of ContritionOh, my God, I am sorry for my sins. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you and your Church. I firmly intend, with the help of Your Son to do penance and to sin no more. Amen. Conclusion

In conclusion, after you do your penance, you are clean of sin! All Catholics who have received this sacrament for the first time are required to go at least twice a year: Lent and Advent. There is all about reconciliation!