Absolution

The full text of the absolution given by the priest is: “God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his Son has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Included in this text are several important messages:

1. Forgiveness comes from the mercy of God.
2. Reconciliation takes place through the death and resurrection of Jesus.
3. The presence of the Holy Spirit among us is a sign of God's forgiveness.
4. The Church plays a role in the extension of God's forgiveness to us.
5. The priest acts as judge of the person's sincerity in seeking forgiveness.
6. Forgiveness is granted in the name of the three persons of the Trinity.