Colloquia Theologica Ottoniana

On the sacrament of penance and reconciliation we can lead discussion at various levels (theological, pedagogical, psychological, social). In the present article discusses the problem of preparation for the use of the sacrament of penance and reconciliation, which takes place in the framework of the “German catechesis”. The term is broad and includes preparation for the sacrament of penance in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg, which in German-speaking countries. The context of this statement is the deepening crisis of faith in a multicultural society, the crisis of the functioning of the Church (generally institutions and religious communities), the crisis of knowledge, understanding and use of the sacraments, as well as the crisis of the sacrament of the priesthood (of all kinds of scandals over “offi cialdom” routine and discouragement). Considerations are addressed to Polish readers, hence understanding of catechesis will be wide –as teaching and education of religious and moral, and therefore the impact, which takes place both in school (Religionsunterricht), and in the parish (Gemeindekatechese). The introduction to the discussion is to show how the sacrament of penance is functioning in German ministry.