Reconciliation

A detailed Summary of Reconciliation

As humans, we tend to categorize, confine, and neatly package our emotions, actions, and especially our religion. The above definition is a clear example of that. Reconciliation is so much more than humans can ever explain. Its power goes beyond what humans will ever understand, no matter how many labels are created. Reconciliation is representative of relationship, is present in every sacrament, and has the power to free society from the pains of sin. The first part of reconciliation that is forgotten is the emphasis on relationship. The sin, which too often has been the focus of penitential rites, is first within the self. It is called the sacrament of Penance, since it makes real the Christian sinner's personal steps of conversion, penance, and peace. A person must find the strength through God to come to terms with their sins. Only then will they be able to express their sorrow to others, specifically a priest. During the absolution, the person is now free to take action over their sins. They complete the cycle of relationship by apologizing to the person they have wronged or they may give back to others in another way that is appropriate to the situation. It is called the sacrament of forgiveness, since by the priest

As Megan McKenna states, "Reconciliation in Greek literally means 'to walk together again'" (128). This perfectly describes the element of relationship that is so crucial to this sacrament, and for once does not limit the meaning of the action. Let us walk together in peace with ourselves, others, and ultimately, God. Reconciliation is unique because it is an integral part of every other sacrament. Baptism celebrates the washing away of original sin. The Eucharist "makes it clear that reconciliation within Christian community is most deeply a matter of that group becoming truly the 'body of Christ'"(Cooke 218). Confirmation strengthens our power to forgive and also to take courage when faced with sin. Marriage commits two people to recognize, accept, and forgive the other person's faults in a most intimate way. Holy Orders enables the ordained to help others recognize and work through their sins. Finally, Anointing of the Sick heals us in both a spiritual and physical sense. In each case, reconciliation reaffirms the relational aspect of the sacrament. It binds us to each other and God in the image of the body of Christ. I find no other sacrament to have this universal power. And yet, our society still finds ourselves in pain. Discouraged with our lives, helpless in our relationships with family and friends, and torn from our God, we commit the deepest and most terrible sins. We hurt ourselves, others, and especially God. The relationships have faded; we are no longer walking together. Sin i

Some common words found in the essay are:
, Anointing Sick, God God's, God Reconciliation, God I'm, Kathleen Hughes, Reconciliation Greek, Holy Spirit, God Father, called sacrament, holy spirit, reconciliation forgotten, element relationship, sacrament penance,

Approximate Word count = 1022
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Religion