Confession (Penance, Reconciliation)
The sacrament in which sins committed after Baptism are forgiven through confession to a priest; its three names each describe one part of what happens.
One sacrament, several names. It is the sacrament of conversion because it answers Christ's call to turn back to him; of Penance because it consecrates the sinner's steps of repentance; of confession because telling one's sins to the priest is an essential part of it; of forgiveness because God grants pardon through the priest's absolution; and of Reconciliation because it restores the sinner to friendship with God and the Church. Catholics are obliged to confess grave sins at least once a year and before receiving Communion in a state of mortal sin; frequent confession of venial sins is strongly encouraged.
Councils
Where the Church settled or debated this. Follow a council to read our article on it, or the decrees themselves.
- 1215Fourth Lateran Councilthe decrees
- 1545–1563Council of Trentthe decrees
Sources checked 29 September 2026