Rituals of Reconciliation
The following words and actions, also known as rituals, are a part of the celebration of Reconciliation;
- The priest greeting the penitent
- The Sign of the Cross being made
- The priest reading God's Word with the penitent
- The penitent confessing their sins
- The priest helping and counselling the penitent
- The priest providing penitent with a penance to perform
- The priest asking the penitent to express their sorrow, usually by reciting the Act of Contrition
- The penitent receiving absolution.
The priest says, “I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
We respond, “Amen.” - The priest dismissing the penitent
The priest says, “Go in peace.” - The penitent performing the act of penance given to them by the priest
Significance of the rituals
- They lead us out of ourselves and put us in touch with the transcendent
- The familiarity provides a sense of security and comfort, this ensures that the transcendent moment is not lost
- They open our hearts to the sacred
- They enhance a sense of belonging
- They create meaning and purpose
- They restore our relationship with God
- They regulate celebration
It is important to remember that rituals are not merely routines of meaningless repetitive actions and behaviours. Rituals are structured, purposeful, meaningful actions which we must actively participate in.