Episode Details

Episode 12 – The Sacrament of Reconciliation Confession

Our presenter, James Seghers, explains the origins of the Sacrament of Reconciliation Confession in this episode of the Understanding Catholicism Series.

In John 20:21-23, Jesus, having risen from the dead, bestows the miraculous power to forgive sins. “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so, I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

James discusses how the grace of the spirit has been bestowed on priests and how to understand the marvel of this Sacrament, one must comprehend the terrible reality of sin.

Using scripture to demonstrate, James describes how Jesus warns us that sin is inherent in human appetites and how specific human desires go against the will and law of the Father. Jesus also implores humanity to draw closer to the Father to receive grace and mercy in order to strengthen us and fight the pull of earthly appetites.

Additionally, James explores the types of sin, the degrees of their graveness, and how confession was even instituted in the Old Testament as a means of repentance, healing, and forgiveness.

This is the 12^th Episode in the (20 Episode Series) of Understanding Catholicism.

Jimmy Seghers was born in New Orleans. Jimmy has devoted much of his life to the pursuit of learning, teaching, and mentorship. Jimmy has taught Sacred Scripture and Apologetics (that is, the defense of the Catholic faith). Jimmy frequently gives retreats, parish missions, and talks on biblical subjects. He is seen on FOCUS with Lisa Flood discussing biblical and religious topics. His classes are approved by the Archdiocese of New Orleans for certification credits for religion teachers. Each week, Jim is heard on the Radio Maria network. He can also be heard each morning on Catholic Community Radio as he gives the daily Gospel reflection. His essays have been published in This Rock, the Clarion-Herald, and he contributed to a catechetical series published by Ave Maria University Press. His most recent book is The Fullness of Truth: A Handbook for Understanding and Explaining the Catholic Faith Biblically.

To find out more about Magnificat, A Ministry to Catholic Women, visit us at www.magnificat-min