Meaning: The quote you provided is a succinct encapsulation of the three conditions necessary for the sacrament of Penance, also known as confession or reconciliation, in the Catholic Church. It is attributed to Thomas Aquinas, a prominent theologian and philosopher of the medieval period. In this quote, Aquinas outlines the essential elements required for a valid and efficacious act of penance, drawing from the teachings and traditions of the Catholic faith.

Firstly, contrition is identified as a fundamental component of Penance. Contrition refers to genuine sorrow or remorse for one's sins, accompanied by a firm resolve to amend one's ways and strive to avoid committing the same sins in the future. It is an interior disposition that reflects a sincere and heartfelt regret for having offended God and others through sinful actions. Contrition is not merely a feeling of guilt or fear of punishment; rather, it involves a deep-seated recognition of the moral and spiritual consequences of one's transgressions. The requirement of contrition underscores the importance of true repentance and a willingness to seek reconciliation with God and the community.

The second condition mentioned by Aquinas is confession of sins without any omission. This refers to the obligation for the penitent to openly and honestly acknowledge their sins before a priest in the sacrament of Penance. The act of confession involves articulating one's transgressions, both in kind and in number, without intentionally concealing or minimizing any significant offenses. The purpose of this requirement is to foster a spirit of humility, accountability, and transparency, as well as to receive the spiritual guidance and counsel offered by the priest. Confession is considered a vital step in the process of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation, as it entails taking responsibility for one's actions and seeking the healing grace of God's mercy.

The third condition outlined by Aquinas is satisfaction by means of good works. This pertains to the penitent's commitment to performing acts of reparation or penance as a way of making amends for their sins and demonstrating a genuine desire for spiritual renewal. Good works, such as acts of charity, prayer, fasting, or other forms of self-denial, are regarded as tangible expressions of contrition and a willingness to actively participate in the process of spiritual healing and growth. By engaging in acts of satisfaction, the penitent seeks to align their actions with their contrition and confession, thereby demonstrating a genuine commitment to living a more virtuous and morally upright life.

Thomas Aquinas, often referred to as the "Doctor Angelicus," is renowned for his extensive contributions to Catholic theology and philosophy. His writings, including his influential Summa Theologica, continue to be studied and revered within the Catholic intellectual tradition. Aquinas' teachings on the sacrament of Penance reflect the broader theological understanding of sin, repentance, and reconciliation within the Catholic Church, emphasizing the interconnectedness of contrition, confession, and satisfaction in the process of seeking God's forgiveness and grace.

In summary, the quote attributed to Thomas Aquinas succinctly articulates the three essential conditions for the sacrament of Penance as understood within the Catholic tradition. It underscores the significance of contrition, confession, and satisfaction as integral aspects of the penitential process, highlighting the spiritual and moral dimensions of seeking reconciliation with God and the community. Aquinas' insights continue to inform the theological and pastoral understanding of the sacrament of Penance, offering guidance and inspiration for those who seek to embrace the transformative power of God's mercy and forgiveness in their lives.