The Words Of Forgiveness (Absolution)

In God's place, the minister or worship leader speaks words of forgiveness and healing to those who repent in true faith.

Traditionally the act of confession is followed by the words of forgiveness spoken by the minister. These are words of assurance to the effect that those who have truly repented of their sin may know with certainty that God has heard their confession and extends a gracious pardon to their request. The words of forgiveness should be short and to the point. This act is essential and should not be omitted. Biblical Examples of the Word of Forgiveness Hear the words of St. John: If we confess our sins he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). or Hear the words of Jesus: Where are those who accuse you? Is there no one to condemn you? Neither do I. Go! and sin no more! (based on John 8:10–11) or Since we have been justified through faith, We have peace with God Through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Rom. 5:1) Traditional Examples of the Words of Forgiveness Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who of his great mercy hath promised forgiveness of sins to all who with hearty repentance and true faith turn unto him, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and bring you to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (The Book of Common Prayer) or Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. (The Book of Common Prayer) or The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting. I declare to you, in the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven. May the God of mercy, who forgives you all your sins, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. (The Service for the Lord's Day [Louisville: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1984], 87) Preparing the Proclamation of the Words of Forgiveness The following pattern of proclamation may be used by those who desire to prepare the words of forgiveness. Direction Example 1. A salutation addressed to God Almighty God 2. An application regarding God's Have mercy on you [us], character of mercy or forgiveness 3. A description of God's favorable forgive you [us] all your [our] sins through disposition toward the repentant our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you [us] in eternal life. 4. A concluding ascription or prayer Amen. closure