Absolution of all past sins, is it Valid?

[timmyo]

I’ve had this happen a few times:

I have gone to confession and started to confess serious sins from my distant past that I forgot about through the years. (I went many years without confession and I was a lax catholic). From time to time, serious sins from my distant past come to my attention when I think about the past or when I do an examination of conscience. On some occassions when I start confessing a list of past serious sins, I have been cut off by the priest and he has asked me “Are you sorry for all of your past sins?” and I reply “yes”. Then he proceeded to give me absolution for all of my past sins and the confession is over. Is this OK? Am I forgiven for all of my past sins?

 

[Dr.Colossus]

For a confession to be valid you must:

a) Be sorry for your sins and resolved not to commit them again
b) Make a sincere effort to confess all mortal sins
c) Receive the words of Absolution

It sounds like you did try to confess everything, and the other criteria were met. You were validly absolved, so try not to worry about it anymore. If you feel that a major sin was left out, you can confess it next time, but this would only be necessary for your own peace of mind, not forgiveness.

 

[marty1818]

I believe that if you tried to confess them and the priest cut you off they are forgiven. I suggest you post on the ask an apologist. They would know better than I.

Matt

 

[NetNuncio]

Absolution is of all sins…if you forget about one, just mention it the next time. Shouldn’t rack your brain at all times about them, but during an examination of conscience or if you just happen to remember it, then you should confess it.

As always, obedient to Rome;

Adam