A comprehensive list of books compiled by William Harmless, S.J. of Creighton University, can be found at

http://moses.creighton.edu/harmless/bibliographies_for_theology/Sacraments_5.htm# 1._PENANCE,_CONFESSION_&_RECONCILIATION:_Introductions_&_Surveys

David M. Coffey

In The Sacrament of Reconciliation David Coffey examines the theology of reconciliation and addresses the crisis that the sacrament faces in the present pastoral situation of the Church. Examines the theology of reconciliation and addresses the crisis that the sacrament faces in the present pastoral situation. Provides both essential knowledge and a response to the widely held view that one does not need to turn to the Church in order to obtain forgiveness from God for sin. Examines the four parts of the sacrament: contrition, confession, absolution, and the prescribed work of penance. Suggests theological limits to possible future reforms of the sacrament. Offers a detailed examination of the three sacramental rites and the nonsacramental service set down by The Rite of Penance, and offers some predictions about the future of the sacrament, based on his study.

By Robert J. Schreiter

In face of the 20th century history of violence and death, a Catholic theologian reflects on the two faces of reconciliation: a social one, seeking to provide structures and process on which a fractured society can be reconstructed based on truth and justice and spiritual, and a spiritual one that has to do with rebuilding shattered lives, healing painful memories, exercising forgiveness, and getting in touch with the depths of our humanity such that hope can be reborn. For this second, deeper kind of reconciliation, the churches are needed, called to model and teach spiritual practices that enable reconciliation to be sought.

The book summarizes the work of Amnesty International worker Daan Bronkhorst on the phases societies go through in their transition from trauma to reconciliation. He turns to Paul's teachings, making five central points: reconciliation is the work of God; it is a spirituality rather than a strategy as a relationship with God and the other, which enable reconciliation, are nurtured; it makes both victim and wrongdoer a new creation; it is about transformation rather than the erasure of memory; it is to be found in the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ; and will be fulfilled only with the complete consummation of the world by God in Christ).

Ends with a call to the Church and individual Christians to risk involvement and participation in crucial reconciliation mission and ministries.

By Richard M. Gula, S.S.

A compassionate overview of reconciliation from the idea of community and hospitality. Provides a refreshing look at the nature of grace, the function of sacraments, sin in its modern perspective, the history of Christian reconciliation.

By Oliver Crilly

Sacramental services and prayerful reflections on forgiveness and reconciliation grouped into different themes: Advent, Lent, Holy Week...; Saints, All Souls and Our Lady feasts; various forms of parish celebrations and retreats; services for small groups, school retreats, young people and children; for Christian Unity, for a pilgrimage and for a wake.

Summary of Church teaching on the Sacrament of Penance and its current practice. In a series of quotes arranged topically the general outline the sacrament is presented. Frequently asked questions about the celebration of the sacrament are included at the end.

Post-synodal apostolic exhortation Reconciliation and Penance of John Paul II to the bishops, clergy and faithful on reconciliation and penance in the mission of the church today

Comprehensive and very readable, dealing with the Church's task and commitment to conversion and reconciliation; the meaning and acknowledgement of individual and social sin and the path to a reconciled life; and the pastoral ministry of penance and reconciliation, including promotion through dialogue, catechesis, the sacraments, the sacrament of forgiveness and forms of celebration, and a concluding expression of hope. Extensive bibliography.

A list of prayers for forgiveness