In Penance, which is also referred to as Confession, we are given audience with a loving God who forgives us our sins. Once more we find, that the people who listened to John the Baptist preach at the Jordan River, came to him confessing their sins before they were baptized. His proclamation was this: Repent! Be baptized and turn from your evil ways, for the Kingdom of God is near at hand! I baptize you with water; there is one who comes after me, who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.