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

YOUCAT Question n. 236 - Part III. 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 1465) When he celebrates the sacrament of Penance, the priest is fulfilling the ministry of the Good Shepherd who seeks the lost sheep, of the Good Samaritan who binds up wounds, of the Father who awaits the prodigal son and welcomes him on his return, and of the just and impartial judge whose judgment is both just and merciful. The priest is the sign and the instrument of God's merciful love for the sinner.

Reflecting and meditating 

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 1466) The confessor is not the master of God's forgiveness, but its servant. The minister of this sacrament should unite himself to the intention and charity of Christ (Cf. PO 13). He should have a proven knowledge of Christian behavior, experience of human affairs, respect and sensitivity toward the one who has fallen; he must love the truth, be faithful to the Magisterium of the Church, and lead the penitent with patience toward healing and full maturity. He must pray and do penance for his penitent, entrusting him to the Lord's mercy.

(The next question is:  Are there sins that are so serious that not even the average priest can forgive them?)