Did you guess?
Here's the answer (the highlighting/bolding is mine):
1449 The formula of absolution used in the Latin Church expresses the essential elements of this sacrament: the Father of mercies is the source of all forgiveness. He effects the reconciliation of sinners through the Passover of his Son and the gift of his Spirit, through the prayer and ministry of the Church:
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But now I am confused.
Earlier, another poster directed me to John 20: 21-23, and said this about that portion of Scripture: "In John 20:21, before He grants them the authority to forgive sins, Jesus says to the apostles, "as the Father sent me, so I send you." As Christ was sent by the Father to forgive sins, so Christ sends the apostles and their successors forgive sins."
You understand my confusion, I trust.
Did Christ grant the apostles and their successors the authority to forgive sins, or didn't He?