The Rites of Reconciliation
During
the Sacrament of Penance, it is the role of the Priest to lead the liturgy. There
are three Rites of the Sacrament of Penance which are celebrated by Christians:
The
First Rite: The penitent or repenting is experienced privately on a
one-on-one basis with a priest
The
Second Rite: This rite is commonly experiences within schools where the liturgy
is and celebrated as a community however the confession and absolution elements
are celebrated individually
The
Third Rite: All elements of the Sacrament of Penance are celebrated
communally. The priest gives a general communal absolution.
The Sacrament
of Penance can also be celebrated through non-sacramental penitential
celebrations whereby Christians demonstrate their need for God’s forgiveness
(CEO, 2006)