One of the more poignant scenes in GFIII (there aren't too many) is Michael's confession to Cardinal Lamberto. I was glad to hear that the Cardinal stood tough. Although he gave absolution (that's what the priest does in Confession; aka the Sacrament of Penance) he did tell Michael that his sins were grave and that God would not look kindly on his soul. He also told Michael that he knew he wouldn't change. FFC could have coped out with a mushy absolution, but showed the course of evil can not be bought off when dealing with a truly honest man (Lamberto.)