What is “Confession”?

“Confession,” also called “Reconciliation of a Penitent,” is a sacrament offered by the Church to all. As its name indicates, Confession/Reconciliation involves turning away from wrongdoing and sin. It isn’t simply saying “sorry”; rather, repentance is an acknowledgment and intention to be different, to turn that part of your life around.

"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38

Reconciliation also involves being forgiven. The Apostle Peter shares with his audience in the Book of Acts that new life comes from the act of repentance, a life that isn’t dependent on our own accomplishments, righteousness, or power. Instead, God’s forgiveness transforms our lives by first freeing us from guilt, shame, and subservience to the things that we and others hang over our heads, in our relationships, in our work places, and in our society. 

In the sacrament of Confession, we are invited to express our repentance to God by naming the things that we have done or not done, whether in public or in secret. By naming them out loud, we invite God to free us from the guilt we carry so that we can experience the liberating power of God’s forgiveness as well as the power of the Holy Spirit to live differently. 

All are invited to share in this liberating experience. 

Let a priest know if you would like to schedule time to explore this sacrament. Know that whatever is shared in Confession stays in Confession. 

Learn more about this sacrament here

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