In most Protestant services, corporate confession infers absolution from God. Debate continues as to whether a priest or intermediary is needed to receive absolution. Congregational churches often view absolution as a natural outgrowth of one’s baptism, assuming that adult baptism is the mode of purification in question. Is absolution more of a response to confession, the restoration of a relationship, or is it instead a result of God’s grace based on one’s profession of belief? Do people have the power and authority to pardon one another, or is God the only "absolver?"
Modes of Absolution in The Episcopal Church
In the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America, absolution can come in two ways: corporate and individually. In either case, the penitent is absolved by a priest or presbyter. The corporate confession of sin takes place within the context of the Holy Eucharist. The sermon precedes the Nicene Creed; then comes the Prayers of the People, then the Confession of Sin.
Afterward the priest stands, faces the congregation, and pronounces the absolution. The worshipers are then invited to participate in the Eucharist or Lord's Supper. At other times, those desiring a more private and perhaps in-depth confession can have their sins absolved using the pastoral office, “Reconciliation of a Penitent.”
The Forgiveness of Sins in Congregational Churches
Ideas, forms of service, and faith expression vary in congregational churches. In the Baptist tradition, for example, the idea of absolution or the pardoning of sin can be seen as rooted in Scripture. When others sin against the believer, he is commanded to forgive them (Luke 17:3-4), and within that commandment is the inference that God automatically forgives, thus should he.
It does not mean relationships remain the same or friendships continue. But it does suggest that both parties move forward with the hope of experiencing some type of restoration and new life. Individuals, churches, and congregations have different ways of comprehending absolution. What it means to the individual is perhaps most important.
The Individual Experience of the Remission of Sins
Being pardoned for wrongdoing is a cleansing experience. When someone has been hurt, it’s understandable when that person says, “I can forgive, but I won’t forget.” Confession and absolution go together. The pardoning of sin succeeds humble repentance.
When Christians truly forgive another, they do so with the understanding that God already has, and the condition of their own soul depends on this realization. What does absolution mean, and in what ways can one experienced God's pardon?
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