Reconciliation is the forgiveness of sins is a true sacrament instituted by Christ, different from baptism. Sins are forgiven only by the sacrament of penance, by the absolution which can only be given by an authorized priest. On the part of the sinner, contrition, confession, and sanctification are required. Contrition is feeling remorseful and penitent. Confession must cover all mortal sins committed since baptism and not previously confessed. Venial sins, and sins already confessed, can validly be confessed. Sanctification: simply means to sanctify: that is, to make holy. It is when God sanctifies us, He makes us holy.