The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 199: The Sacrament of Forgiveness (2025)
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Jul 18, 2025 Discover the transformative journey through the sacrament of Reconciliation. Fr. Mike dives into its historical evolution, revealing how essential elements like contrition and confession have endured through time. Learn about the differences between perfect and imperfect contrition and why understanding this is crucial for the faithful. Explore the sacrament's role in reconciling sinners with God and appreciate the Church's significant part in granting forgiveness. It's a compelling discussion on mercy and grace!
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Evolution of Confession Practice
- The sacrament of penance was initially rigorous with public penance for grave sins, sometimes allowed only once in a lifetime.
- The practice evolved into private confession, enabling frequent reception and combining forgiveness of grave and venial sins.
The Catholic Paradox: Justice and Mercy
- God's justice and mercy coexist as a paradox Catholicism embraces.
- Early Church emphasized justice with rarity of confession; later practice stressed mercy and frequent reconciliation.
Priest's Role: Penance and Prayer
- Fr. Mike shared a personal story of a priest fasting 30 days as penance for him after confession.
- This illustrates the priest's role in praying for and doing penance alongside the penitent.
