"In this sacrament [of Reconciliation], the sinner, placing himself before the merciful judgment of God anticipates in a certain way the judgment to which he will be subjected at the end of his earthly life. For it is now, in this life, that we are offered the choice between life and death, and it is only by the road of conversion that we can enter the Kingdom, from which one is excluded by grave sin." (CCC 1470)
This attitude is commonly directed toward folks who have an intellectual and/or developmental disability. And to be sure, the US Bishops do tell us, "only those who have the use of their reason are capable of committing serious sin" (Guidelines for the Celebration of Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities 23) So, yes, some individuals can be safely assumed to never have committed a serious (mortal) sin.
That said, even young children and individuals with an intellectual disability, are often aware of having done something wrong and experience to some degree feelings of sorrow and remorse (contrition). These individuals may not be able to specifically describe their sin, but are most definitely aware.
People who have disabilities are just that- people. They have moods, challenges, good days and bad days, a range of emotions and behaviors, some of which are in their control, others that aren't. They are affected by how they feel physically and emotionally. The difference is as one catechist so perfectly puts it is their transparency. These individuals do not have the ability to put up the masks that most of us can- if they are having a bad day, you will know it, if they are joyful, they want to share it, and you will know what they are thinking.
I heard a story recently that is a perfect example. Lisa is on the autism spectrum and very attached to one of her catechists. One day, this catechist was not able to give her as much one on one attention as she wanted. Lisa became very agitated, and had an outburst that ended with her aide having to come and get her, and her shouting "I hate (catechist's name), I hate (catechists name)" as she left.
The next day she, with the help of her aide, called that catechist, said said she was sorry and told the catechist that she loved her.
The US Bishops tell us that "As long as the individual is capable of having a sense of contrition for having committed sin, even if he or she cannot describe the sin precisely in words, the person may receive sacramental absolution." (ibid 23)
In fact, even those "who cannot experience even minimal contrition, may be invited to participate in penitential services with the rest of the community to the extent of their ability" (ibid 23)
And communication skills are not a barrier. The bishops tell us that "sorrow for sin is to be accepted even if this repentance is expressed through some gesture rather than verbally" The priest is simply asked to act with prudence and discretion in asking questions and assigning a penance. (ibid 25)
But WHY... why is it so important that this sacrament not be neglected or downplayed for these individuals? To begin to understand this, I'd like you to take a close look at this picture from our summer retreat. For some context, Fr. Dan is speaking about reconciliation, and will next move to the chapel for anyone who would like the sacrament- or even just to talk. Notice how intent the faces of these individuals are as Fr. Dan shares his own story, and talks about healing relationships, and how God is always ready to forgive us.
In baptism we are given God's own life, new life in Christ. Yet, just as our bodies still experience suffering, illness and death, so this new life can be weakened or lost by sin. Jesus came as a healer: "physician of our souls and bodies". Often, as in the case of the paralytic, Jesus healed physically through spiritual healing- the forgiveness of sins. (cf. CCC 1421)
The call to holiness and the choice of life and death is for all. Sometimes- as in the case of infants and individuals who will never reach the age of reason, their parents speak for them, obtaining the grace of the sacraments- choosing life. The great majority of people, however- those with disabilities included- do have at least some awareness, and a sense of contrition, and so need to be formed for this sacrament in a manner appropriate to them, and to have access to it. Reconciliation is part of each person's call to holiness and constant conversion- working to conform our lives more and more perfectly to Christ, our model. Which is why it is strongly recommended to confess even venial sins.
Regular confession helps us to form our conscience, and provides grace to fight against any tendencies toward sin we might have. Reconciliation provides an opportunity to receive guidance, and for satisfaction, doing what is possible to repair any harm done. Unquestionably individuals who have disabilities are faced with temptations, stresses, challenges, frustrations, irritations and hurts each day- just as we all are. The Sacrament of Reconciliation provides the grace and strength to face these temptations and challenges with virtue, and a means to repair their friendship with God, to seek forgiveness, when they respond in a way they know is not right.
So, ultimately persons who have disabilities need Reconciliation for the same reasons we all approach the sacrament...
- Reconciliation with God, and a recovery of grace
- Reconciliation with the Church
- Remission of eternal punishment brought about by mortal sin
- Remission, at least in part of temporal punishments resulting from sin
- Peace and serenity of conscience, and spiritual consolation
- An increase of spiritual strength for the Christian battle (CCC 1496)
