Topic:  Does the priest have to consult with his bishop before granting absolution of sins?

Source of this posting: Moderator response

Date originally posted: June 11, 2005

Moderator who originally posted this source: Kathy Martyn

Question:  Hello,I go to a Catholic school and have gone to a Catholic school my whole life. I feel pretty educated on my beliefs. But recently a priest told my class that when a woman has an abortion and she goes to confession, the priest does not have the authority to forgive her -- he has to first call and consult the bishop. Is this true?

Answer: 

Thank you for your question. Perhaps, you misunderstood your Priest. He does have the authority to grant absolution for all sins without consultation of the Bishop.