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During this Year for Priests, I have been reflecting on my vocation and the different ways God has worked in my life since my ordination.
And I have to say that of all the things I have been called to do as a priest, I have been most affected—and most surprised—by my experience of hearing confessions. Before I was ordained in 1991, I thought it might be burdensome or strange to spend hours in the confessional every week. But it didn’t take me long to discover how very powerful this sacrament can be, for me as well as for the people who come to confess their sins.
Courage to See and Say. Many people are nervous when they approach this sacrament. Once, a woman came in and instead of praying, “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned,” she started, “Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts… . ” I half expected her to break out some food so we could celebrate.…
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This is really interesting. Never heard a priest talk about his experience at the confessional. The sacrament of confession is such a great gift from God to both the penitent and the priest.
IT IS REALLY FASCINATING,THIS WILL ENCOURAGE CATHOLICS TO VALUE WHAT THEY HAVE AND AMKE THE MOST OUT OF IT.ITS GOOD TO LET PEOPLE KNOW THAT EVEN THE PRIEST GO FOR CONFESSION.MAY GOD HELP US TO BE FAITHFUL TO HIM
This is a nice piece. For me, the greatest problem i have is “i can’t imagine what i’v done wrong”. I lack the courage to look within and examine my conscience. Sometimes i feel some should be left unsaid, since God already knows the heart. I know this is not a good attitude. I really needs God’s Grace.
for many years i didn’t go to confession or communion because of a failed marriage. i was bound by Jesus’ words “whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” through the encouragement of our parish priest i completed a request for annulment and it was granted. i finally received the sacraments again. the life of the Spirit has has given me tears of healing to wash away my guilt and grace has made me whole again. Thank you, Lord, for your tender love and mercy.
This is very interesting