Convocation, 1536.—"That perfect penance which Christ requireth consists of contrition, confession, and amendment of former life, and an obedient reconciliation to the laws and will of God."—See also the Homilies.
Absolution.
Our Church ascribeth not the power of remission of sins to any but to God only. She holds that faith and repentance are the necessary conditions of receiving this blessing. And she asserts what is most true, that Christ's ministers have a special commission, which other believers have not, authoritatively to declare this absolution for the comfort of true penitents; and which absolution, if duly dispensed, will have a real effect from the promise of Christ. (John xx. 23,)—Pull. Moderat.
Authority of the Church is only spiritual and ministerial (the Head and authority being in heaven). She does not, therefore, call her orders Laws, but Rules, Canons; and her inflictions, not punishments, but censures. She acknowledges that whatever power she has besides spiritual, is either from the favour or injunction of princes.
But (Article 37.) we give not our princes (and they have always disclaimed it) the power of administering God's Word, or the Sacraments. And although our spiritual power be from God, yet is this power subject to be inhibited, limited, regulated, in the outward exercises, by the laws and customs of the land. By this moderation both powers are preserved entire and distinct. We neither claim a power of jurisdiction over the prince, nor pretend to be exempt from his.
Antenuptial Fornication.
Those who enter into marriage only to conceal their shame, ought to give public satisfaction, as well as expiate their sin, by open penance.
The greatest care ought to be taken concerning the sincerity of penitents; till that be done, penance will only be a form, without a power or any real benefit.
In the primitive Church, every thing was done with advice, because their great aim was to have reason and the will of God
