In the Middle Ages, Christians were expected to visit a priest yearly to offer __________.

In the Middle Ages, Christians were expected to visit a priest yearly to offer confession. This practice was a vital part of the Christian faith during this period, reflecting the importance of spiritual cleansing and penance within the Catholic Church. Confession allowed individuals to admit their sins and seek forgiveness, which was believed to restore their relationship with God. The sacrament of penance was deeply ingrained in medieval society, as it emphasized moral accountability and the need for redemption. The priest would guide the confessor through the process, providing counsel and prescribing acts of penance – such as prayers or other deeds – to atone for the sins confessed. This ritual not only served as a means for personal reflection and improvement but also helped reinforce the community's moral standards.