Reconciliation is one of the two Sacraments of Healing. Through this sacrament we encounter a forgiving Christ. The priest/bishop represents Christ and the community of the Church and allows us to receive forgiveness for our sins. The sacrament forces us to confront our sinfulness and plead for mercy. Through the grace of forgiveness we can continue our journey and follow the way of God. This sacrament is known by many names: sacrament of Conversion, Penance, Confession, sacrament of forgiveness and Sacrament of Reconciliation. Each name points to a different aspect of the sacrament. (CCC 1423-1424) There are four essential elements to this sacrament: contrition, confession, absolution, and penance.