Informal Penance in Early Medieval Christendom
Richard Price
Throughout the modern period Catholic and Orthodox Christians alike have taken it for granted that forgiveness sins committed after baptism is obtained first foremost through confession to a priest absolution by priest, humility of plus power sacrament being deemed most effective remedy human weakness. Other elements in overcoming sin, such as regular religious observance avoidance occasions were not forgotten, but put second place. The falling away from sacramental Church today doubtless complex phenomenon, one reason decline widespread perception this does work, penitential discipline places so heavy reliance on priestly absolution, without adequate attention other aspects repentance forgiveness, ineffectual. It also represents what arguably an impoverished clericalized Catholicism. aim paper explore those practice early middle ages belong tradition at once richer more flexible.
Studies in Church History