Biblijny fundament posługi kapłańskiej w sakramencie pojednania

Abstract

The apostolic adhortation Reconciliatio et paenitentia while discussing the sacerdotal ministry in the sacrament of penitence, indicates the Bible as the first source of information about that. Analysing the biblical data, permits us to discover the figure of the dispenser in “his greatness” (cf. RP 29). The penitential practice of the primitive Church drew patterns from the Old Testament. Because the sin damaged the Covenant – the foundation of the existence of the Chosen Nation – the sinner was punished with death or was expelled from the people. In the decision about excommunication, and the penitential celebrations, especially on the Day of Reconciliation (Yom Kippur), the first role was played by priests. The work of reconciliation made in Jesus Christ is extended by the ministry of the Church. We can find some information about the modes to dispense this ministry through the Apostolic Church in Paul’s Writings. Sin evoked reactions of admonition and excommunication. The contrite sinner was received again into his fellowship. Both exclusion and reconciliation with the Church had an official character and engaged the responsible for the fellowship, that is, bishops and priests. Especially important for the sacerdotal ministry in the sacrament of penance are the texts from Mt 16:19; Mt 18:18 and John 20:22-23. The juridical, ecclesial, and demonological interpretations of Mathew’s texts agree that the object of the power binding and unbinding are the Apostles and their successors. John’s statements about forgiving and retaining sins refer to those who hold the apostolic office in the Church. The biblical testimonies confirm that bishops and priests were particularly engaged in the ministry of reconciliation. They are responsible for the fellowship and preside at ecclesia! celebrations. They fulfilled this ministry as representatives of the Church and in a close relationship with their fellowship.