What happens when we receive the seal of the Spirit at Confirmation?

AFC Team

When we receive the seal of the Spirit at Confirmation, we are prepared to (1) witness for Christ as mature Christians, and (2) defend the Faith and evangelize. When we receive the seal of the Spirit at Confirmation, we are prepared to witness for Christ as mature Christians. By Confirmation, the Christian is bound more perfectly to the Church, and …

What is the Sacrament of Penance?

AFC Team

The Sacrament of Penance brings to the Christian God’s merciful forgiveness for any sins committed after Baptism, and it brings the sinner consolation and peace. St. John writes: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). As God’s Son, Jesus had the power of …

How does the Sacrament of Penance help us?

AFC Team

The Sacrament of Penance helps us: (1) to obtain forgiveness from God after we have made a sincere confession, shown true sorrow, and are resolved not to sin again; (2) to be reconciled with the Church, which is wounded by our sins; and (3) to strive for holiness of life and overcome habits of sin. 1. The Sacrament of Penance …

If a Catholic has committed a mortal sin, is it necessary for him to go to Confession?

AFC Team

Yes, when a Catholic has committed a serious or mortal sin, sacramental confession is the ordinary way to reconcile the sinner with Christ and His Church. Confession is, for the Catholic, the sacramental way of obtaining pardon for sin and of submitting his offenses to the mercy and forgiving grace of God. In this sacrament Jesus forgives our sins, no …

What does perfect sorrow for sin do for a person?

AFC Team

Perfect sorrow or contrition for mortal sin restores a person to the state of grace even prior to receiving the Sacrament of Penance, providing he is sincerely sorry for offending God and intends to go to confession as soon as possible. We have perfect sorrow for our sins when we are truly sorry for them because they have offended our …

What does the Church desire concerning Confession?

AFC Team

The Church desires that every Catholic, from the “age of discretion” (about seven years old), should be instructed on how to receive and best profit from the regular use of the Sacrament of Penance. The Church encourages the faithful to confess their sins to a priest with a contrite heart in the Sacrament of Penance. She makes it very clear …

What do we gain by confessing venial sins?

AFC Team

When we confess our venial sins, not only does God pardon them, but we receive an increase of grace and charity which allows for a better disposition for receiving Jesus in the Holy Eucharist and helps us to perfect the Christian life. The abundance of the fruit which we gain from Holy Communion depends upon the degree of our love, …

In what way is the saving work of Christ continued?

AFC Team

The saving work of Christ is continued in the Catholic Church, especially through the Seven Sacraments which He instituted. The Holy Spirit gives His grace through the sacraments and sanctifies souls. By means of the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Catholic Church enjoys Christ’s presence and continues His ministry and saving mission. Jesus promised to remain with us, through …

What purpose do the sacraments serve?

AFC Team

The sacraments serve: (1) as sources of grace for individuals and communities and (2) as remedies for sin and the effects of sin. The sacraments are also signs of faith, as explained in question 192. 1. The sacraments serve as sources of grace for individuals and communities. All the sacraments produce sanctifying grace. In addition, each sacrament gives its own …