Have you ever wanted to know for sure that you were forgiven for a stupid or unkind thing that you’ve done, which still nags at your conscience? Have you ever wanted to discuss the recurring problems of the spiritual life with a priest? Have you ever wanted to have a companion or guide to help you deal with the ups and downs of being a Christian and battling against sin?
The sacrament of Confession is given to us as a remedy for all these concerns.
When we make a confession to a priest, we tell him the things we have done wrong. We are given advice and counsel, and the priest then pronounces absolution. Absolution is when a priest declares we are forgiven our sins in the name of Jesus himself. Absolution lets us know for sure that that those things on our conscience are put away for ever, and that God forgives us.
It is clear from the New Testament this practice took place in apostolic times, and many find it today a freeing gift and wonderful source of strength.
Fr Peter is always available each week at 11.30am on Saturdays in St Benet’s Church to hear confessions. Please be in touch with him if you would like to find another time more convenient, or want to make an appointment for spiritual direction.
Fr Peter is always happy to talk beforehand about how to make a good confession with anyone who has never used this sacrament before.