After Baptism, Christians can still fall. The Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance) is the sacrament of forgiveness: God reestablishes communion through the absolution of the Church and the sincere contrition of the faithful. The passages from John and Corinthians are summarized by theme; no lengthy quotations.
The basic doctrine includes: interior contrition, confession, penance (satisfaction assigned by the priest), and receiving forgiveness. The Catechism Part Two explains in detail; pastoral resources on reputable diocesan websites often provide practical guidance.
After the Resurrection, the Gospel of John records that the Lord gave the Holy Spirit and entrusted the authority to forgive or retain sins to the Apostles (Jn 20:19–23 — read the entire appearance account). The Second Letter to the Corinthians speaks of the ministry of reconciliation and the role of ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:14–21; it is advisable to read the whole passage on “reconciliation in Christ”).
Compare Original
Open Jn 20:19–24 and 2 Corinthians 5:14–21 in an approved Bible.
Seal of Confession
The priest is bound by the absolute seal of confession regarding sins confessed — this protects trust and the courage to return to mercy.
Elements of the Sacrament in the Catechism
The Catechism Part Two on the Sacrament of Reconciliation (usually §1422–1498 depending on edition) presents the return to God after having been baptized: it requires contrition (sorrow and resolution to amend), confession to a priest with faculties (for mortal sins after baptism), absolution by the minister, and satisfaction (good works or prayers imposed by the priest) to heal the consequences of sin. Jn 20:22–23 and 2 Corinthians 5:18–20 are understood as entrusting to the Church a genuine ministry of forgiveness — not replacing the unique mercy of God but as the sacrament that He gives to His people. The Catechism also distinguishes between perfect contrition and imperfect contrition and explains the role of the seal of confession as protecting the sacrament, not arbitrary power. Reading these passages on vatican.va helps avoid reducing “confession” to mere psychology or social surveillance.
