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From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Simplified
Restores to God's Friendship (1468)
This sacrament restores the person to God's friendship. This reconciliation with God "brings a serenity of conscience with strong spiritual consolation" (Council of Trent) and restores all the blessings of being God's child.
Reconciles to the Church (1469)
The person is also reconciled to the Church. The sinner shares again in the holy exchange of spiritual goods with other members. Reconciliation with God leads to the person's reconciliation "within himself, with his brethren, with the Church, and with all creation" (Pope John Paul II).
Anticipates Particular Judgment (1470)
The sacrament anticipates the person's particular judgment after death. In this life, the person can choose the road of conversion away from those sins which exclude from the kingdom. By repentance, the sinner "does not come into judgment" (Jn 5:24).
