Catholic FAQ #3: Why must we confess our sins to a priest?

Monsignor Eric Barr, Episcopal Vicar for Clergy and Religious for the Diocese of Rockford, IL, responds to the frequently asked question - "Why must we confess our sins to a priest?"

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[lesliejones73]

Show me in the new testament about confessing sin to a priest

[Rockford Diocese]

There are a number of references to confession in the New Testament. Here are just a couple. In John 20:23, Jesus says to his apostles: "If you forgive the sins of any they are forgiven. If you retain the sins of any, they are retained." Clearly the apostles would need to know the peoples sins to forgive them. Also, in Acts 19:18, it says "Many also of those who were now believers came, confessing and divulging their practices." I hope that helps. Thank you and God Bless.

[MindRevVing84]

Only an individual can understand his own mind. confession advice lacks in too many areas to be taken seriously. Not enough time to properly convey all the motivs , influences to the Father. Most Priest can never even remember all that i say to them. and tell me to come back again to confess the rest...as if I was not really forgiven. The recommended penance never helped me out to understand or cope with addictions.

[Rockford Diocese]

The purpose of confession is to reconcile man to God and to restore ourselves to a life of grace. We deprive ourselves of God's grace when we sin. For help with overcoming or understanding our sinful nature, and cope with behavior which causes us to sin, sometimes a one on one meeting with a priest, outside of the sacrament of confession, is necessary. Most priests would happily meet with you privately to help assist with matters such as these. God Bless

[Hani GOC]

thank you.