Confession to a priest shouldn’t be needed

[Luigi]

"Why is penance necessary?" 

I don't know. I guess we could just let criminals say, "Sorry that I killed your grandma," and then let them back out on the street, but no society on earth does that sort of thing. I guess the idea is reparation for the harm done and some exercise to make one progress in holiness. 

But all of this is actually above my pay grade. Go talk to a Dominican or something. 

[Anomaly]

Family, reading.   Two separate things.   Discussing church stuff with family.   Some are very involved.   I read articles, philosophy, etc.  I have childhood friends that became priests, other people I know that became priests.   It makes it easy to have real conversations.  Certainly not super scholarly, but other here are in to that. 
 

Penance is multifaceted.  Theologically, it’s atonement AND opening yourself up to grace for personal growth.   Psychologically, it’s validation for your apology and internal forgiveness, and opportunity for mindful self analysis.   One of the heaviest mental burdens we carry is guilt and self judgement. If you fully embrace reconciliation, it’s incredibly powerful and healing.   Think about that on both aspects, soul and psyche.