Excommunication

Excommunication is a formal censure used by certain religious organizations, particularly in Christianity, to limit a person's participation in the community or its sacraments. This action is usually taken when an individual is believed to have committed serious offenses against the beliefs or teachings of the faith. The intent is often to encourage repentance and reconciliation rather than to punish. Excommunicated members may still be recognized as part of the faith, but they are excluded from certain communal religious activities until they seek forgiveness and adhere to the church's teachings.