Podstawy teologiczne i rys historyczny władzy spowiadania

Abstract

In its practice and form the sacrament of penance has undergone development over the centuries. However, as far as its essence is concerned, the Church has always held a firm and constant certainty that forgiveness is administered by Christ’s will through sacramental absolution from a dispenser of pardons. The article discusses the theological foundations of the power of granting absolution and briefly presents its history. Until the publication of the new Ordo Paenitentiae (1973), this power was referred to as jurisdiction to grant absolution. The above mentioned document and the Code of Canon Law of 1983 use the term facultas which is translated as authorization or capacity. Therefore, the article title does not contain either of the words. The ministry of the sacrament of penance requires holy orders and authorisation. The issue is very important as it should be remembered – and this concerns dispensers of pardons especially – that the invalid administration of the sacrament means an insult to the sacrament and places the burden of moral blame on the confessor.