Tuesday, February 21, 2006
More on Sin, Penance, and Confession
It's a good topic. Below, John addresses some portions of last night's post. My response follows.
John asked, "... why the term 'magical absolution'?" I think this attitude is part of the problem. Using a term like this certainly discourages the use of the Sacrament.
Since I was referring directly to the reports of priests who were serial penitents in addition to their activity as serial predators, I think my meaning is clear. While it is true that grave sins are often difficult to disengage from, the reports that sex abusers (or any other persistent sinner) can dodge confessors and be relieved of taking responsibility for making a firm effort to reform probably does far more harm to the image of the sacrament than most anything else. I've heard very little input from the laity along the lines of "Wow! They can forgive a sex abuser dozens of times. My petty little sins should be a piece of cake!"
(The pastor) needs to educate his people and inform them that they are sinners and that sacramental forgiveness is essential. He needs to reach the people who are in mortal sin. It's an obligation that comes with Orders.
Well, that would be a possible approach when dealing with children. More often adults are led by actions and example. It's a fine line between a priest who has gone overboard in being public with his sinfulness and one who sets an example for parishioners. Bishops are even more of an obstacle at times. Do parish priests cultivate a humble attitude that comes with awareness of being a sinner? I know some in 12 Steps who can do so. And a few others besides.
The faithful should pack the Church for Confession; the people should hunger and thirst for the forgiveness that they need and that only this Sacrament offers. And being made clean, they should rejoice and be glad in it. It's not "magical," it's a miracle of grace.
Agreed. The question is: how to get there from here. The Vatican II renewal of Penance has been pretty much a failure in that regard. We know the old way didn't do it. The new ways -- such as they are -- don't. Time for a third approach.
