Dear Catholic Exchange:
In the past, Confession was saying how long ago its been since one went to the Sacrament and giving a litany of one's sins.
Can you provide me with information that would allow me to make a better Confession?
Thanks,
Mr. Tacker
Dear Mr. Tacker,
Peace in Christ!
You are correct. Confession is less about giving a laundry list of sins than about identifying key areas of spiritual weakness in life and using God’s grace to attack these areas and become more holy. We have a little booklet authored by Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz called A Little Catechism on Confession which gives very practical advice on how to get the most out of the sacrament of penance. He stresses particularly the importance of a good examination of conscience. It is available online at The Little Catechism on Confession.
United in the Faith,
Pete Brown
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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