[hall0ween]

As far as I know, confession is a route for absolution of “sins”. And for some reason this is a power Christian churches give themselves. If it doesn’t result in a form of leverage (moral or otherwise) over it’s practitioners, I’d be surprised. Even more so for children who have yet to establish their own view of the world.

[hudon]

Forgiveness is from God, but can be through a priest, as long as you are contrite. The Church as a body of Christians obviously benefits from contrite brothers and sisters attempting (and yes often failing miserably, but at least attempting) to live in peaceful communion.

[aidenn0]

Though in many catholic communities the level of contrition is perhaps unhealthy. I joke that:

- A Christian Fundamentalist believes that only those who believe a very specific set of things is saved

- A Christian Universalist believes that all are saved

- A Catholic Christian believes that everyone except him/herself is saved

[mbfg]

Why do you believe that claim? What evidence do you have that it is true?

[dragonwriter]

> And for some reason this is a power Christian churches give themselves.

Mostly, Mt. 16:15-19.

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/16

[geoduck14]

>And for some reason this is a power Christian churches give themselves.

Not all churches give themselves this power. I'm Baptist, and we confess to God.