Teologia sakramentu pokuty i pojednania. Deficyty i propozycje

Abstract

Because of its specific nature, the sacrament of penance and reconciliation (the history of which demonstrates that the sacrament has undergone the greatest evolution of all) causes numerous difficulties ranging from sophisticated theological considerations, through anthropological and psychological aspects, socio-cultural conditions, to the pastoral praxis. Like each of the seven signs denoting and effectively bestowing Christ’s grace, it contains the element (res) and the sign (signum), the mutual interdependence of which affects sacramental comprehension and practice. Today’s experiences reveal a ‘crisis’ in the practice, the roots of which stem from deficiencies in preparation both on the side of the confessor and that of the penitent. The article discusses the most important symptoms and reasons for the ‘crisis’ related to almost all aspects of Christian life (prayer, catechesis, upbringing and the socio-ecclesial context). It then moves on to offer suggestions for a possible way out of the present impasse through deep theological considerations focused on five issues: 1. the nature of the sacrament of penance and reconciliation, especially its ecclesial dimension; 2. the coexistence of God’s Word and the sacrament; 3. the nature of human sinfulness (‘pre-sin’ and personal sin); 4. The significance of human freedom in the process of forgiveness, reconciliation and God’s redemptive act; 5. conscience shaping. The last of those issues is discussed with regard to the Congregation for the Clergy’s document The Priest, Minister of Divine Mercy - An Aid for Spiritual Directors and Confessors.