Catholic Position

¶1462 Forgiveness of sins brings reconciliation with God, but also with
the Church.  Since ancient times the bishop, visible head of a
particular Church, has thus rightfully been considered to be the one
who principally has the power and ministry of reconciliation: he is the
moderator of the penitential discipline. Priests, his collaborators,
exercise it to the extent that they have received the commission either
from their bishop (or religious superior) or the Pope, according to the
law of the Church.

Scripture Says

Colossians 1:20
20  And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him
to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be
things in earth, or things in heaven.

2 Corinthians 5:18-20
18  And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself
by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
19  To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto
himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed
unto us the word of reconciliation.
20  Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did
beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to
God.


Ephesians 2:16
16  And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:


Romans 5:18
18  Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men
to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came
upon all men unto justification of life.

Commentary

• The sinner has offended God.
• The sinner must be reconciled to God whom he has offended.
• The matter is between you and God–be reconciled to Him today.