Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 236 - Part II.

YOUCAT Question n. 236 - Part II. Why are priests the only ones who can forgive sins?

(Youcat answer – repeated) No man can forgive sins unless he has a commission from God to do so and the power given by him to ensure that the forgiveness he promises the penitent really takes place. The Bishop, in the first place, is appointed to do that and, then, his helpers, the ordained priests.   

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 1463) Certain particularly grave sins incur excommunication, the most severe ecclesiastical penalty, which impedes the reception of the sacraments and the exercise of certain ecclesiastical acts, and for which absolution consequently cannot be granted, according to canon law, except by the Pope, the bishop of the place or priests authorized by them (Cf. CIC, cann. 1331; 1354-1357; CCEO, can. 1431; 1434; 1420). In danger of death any priest, even if deprived of faculties for hearing confessions, can absolve from every sin and excommunication (Cf. CIC, can. 976; CCEO, can. 725).

Reflecting and meditating 

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 1464) Priests must encourage the faithful to come to the sacrament of Penance and must make themselves available to celebrate this sacrament each time Christians reasonably ask for it (Cf. CIC, can. 486; CCEO, can. 735; PO 13).  

(This question: Why are priests the only ones who can forgive sins? is continued)