The Irish Penitentials and Conscience Formation
Hugh Connolly
As commonly used in its moral sense I will, for the purposes of this paper, take concept “conscience” to be inherent ability every healthy human being perceive what is right and wrong and, on strength perception, control, monitor, evaluate execute their actions. Such values as or wrong, good evil, just unjust, fair unfair have existed throughout history are also shaped by an individual’s cultural, political economic environment. The medieval penitential literature offers one such historical snapshot. These manuals guides confessors, including prayers, lists questions asked confessor, penances assigned various sins were integral part practice private penance which began Celtic Church later spread through Europe with Anglo-Saxon missions. Penitential books use confessors appeared sixth ninth centuries. texts not a rule decreed episcopal synods. Their authority generally rested reputation compiler editor. Public public that caused scandal church. Private matters conscience. Penitentials more flexible than churches’ ancient canonical system they largely replaced. While European tended provide complete guidance confessor instead mere rules penalties; instruction entirely absent from earlier Irish ancillary documents. Thus, goal early middle ages was only sacramental but didactic. It would been occasion inculcate Christian beliefs, opportunity model proper behaviour extension key formation case expressions casuistry (Etym. Latin casus, case, problem solved) purpose thus adapt apply unchangeable norms morality changing variable circumstances life albeit somewhat rudimentary fashion. literary genre pastoral practices stemming it valid worthy object any study theological analysis concerning ‘formation conscience.’
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