-
The process of penance could only happen once. The process was only necessary for three types of sin; losing faith in God, committing murder and breaking marriage vows.
-
The belief of penance was created by the catholic church were catholics could be forgiven for their sins.
-
Irish monks came up with an alternative to canonical penance which was called private penance. This is where the sinner would confess their sins to the priest in private instead of publically with less punishing consequences.
-
Now that a new form of penance existed, new beliefs were created. Penance could now be given multiple times instead of once..
-
In this period, private penance become very popular in the catholic community. However, both forms of public and private penance were done.
-
There was a shift in emphasis from repentance and conversion to absolution.
-
In the 13th century, penance was listed as the fourth most popular sacrament out of the seven.
-
Three Rites of Reconciliation were promulgated: First Rite for individuals wishing to confess sins privately.Second Rite for a group of people for a communal celebration, but with private confession.Third Rite for communal celebration and general confession.
-
Pope Pius X Promoted frequent reception of communion and this led to frequent reception of penance. Sin was seen in a legistacal way.