Videos
Learn the importance of making a good Confession and how to improve your Confessions.
Institute for New Media
In this short, humorous video created by the Institute for New Media, we are given the boost we may need getting to Confession. It covers many of the fears we may face returning to the Sacrament if we've committed a sin we are especially embarrassed about.
Key Takeaways
- The video is short and to the point
- Clever images and vocalizations used to ease anxiety about Confession
- Highlights God's Mercy
- Emphasizes Confession is not about judgement
Questions for Reflection
- Did this video put your mind at ease regarding Confession?
- Is it easier for you to believe that Confession is not something you should fear after watching this video?
- Can you identify what's keeping you from returning to Confession?
Other Resources
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Church Documents
Catechism Of The Catholic Church
Excerpts from the Catechism of the Catholic Church on Confession: paragraphs 1420-1498
Videos
Why Confess Your Sins to a Priest (Part 2) | Made for Glory
Fr. Michael Nixon continues discussing why going to Confession is helpful.
In Fr. Nixon's first video on Confession, he explains where the authority of the sacrament originated. Jesus has the power to forgive sins and He passes this ability on to His priests. In this video he examines some particulars of the sacrament.
A priest may never break the seal of Confession. He is forbidden to discuss any particulars of what he has been told by the penitent. He assures us that priests do not remember the sins they have been told. After hearing many Confessions, a priest will not be scandalized by our sins.
In Confession we name what we have done. Declaring it out loud is in an important step in the healing process. The wound has been opened and can now be cured.
Key Takeaways
- Your sins are not that interesting.
- The priest rejoices with those who are coming to the sacrament.
- We are good at deceiving ourselves, that's why it's important to confess our sins.
- When we claim our sins, God can bring His grace, His mercy and His healing to our soul.
- When we hide our sins they fester.
Questions for Reflection
- Have you ever been healed of a sin you were afraid to confess and felt the relief afterwards?
- Did you realize how serious the seal of Confession is for a priest?
- Are there things in your life you blame others for, but you know they are a result of your own failings?
Examinations
A Guided Examination of Conscience
This Examination of Conscience is a wonderful tool that can be used every time you prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. One good word of advice: Make sure you pray before you prepare.
Fr Mark-Mary walks you through the Ten Commandments in a way which enables you to go deeper into your examination before going to Confession. The questions he asks are helpful to anyone who desires to more thoroughly prepare to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Examinations
Bulldog Catholic examination of Conscience
Complete Examination of Conscience to help prepare you to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
This Examination of Conscience is very thorough covering:
Making an Examination of Conscience
The difference between mortal and venial sin
The Ten Commandments
The precepts of the Church
How to go to Confession
Catechism of the Catholic Church regarding Confession
Quotes from Saints on Confession
Pope Francis on Confession
Articles
Examination of Conscience Using the Beatitudes
Looking for a different way to examine your conscience? Using the Beatitudes is a wonderful tool to see how we are not living up to the Lord's standards. "Am I gentle with others or am I harsh?" "Do I truly yearn for God's Will to be done, in my life and in all things?" " Do I love purity and honesty?" These probing questions and more are in this beautiful examination.
Testimonies
Confession Changed Me
Confession changed the life of several people who were away from the Sacrament for many years.
Joseph Pronechen collects stories about several people who returned to the Sacrament of Reconciliation after being away for many years. Beautiful testimonies! There is so much joy in their return to God.