Can I change a penance given in confession?

[mcam42]

Hi.
I recently went to confession and the penance I received was to participate in a lenten fundraising program through a well known Catholic organization. I have heard/read that this group has given some funds to groups that, in addition to all of the good works that they do, promote activities in direct opposition to church teaching.
I asked the priest (about 1/2 hour after I left the confessional) if I could have a substitute penance, since I feel at least uncertain about whether my donations might go to morally objectionable uses. I was told (politely) that there would be no change.
So now I feel trapped between refusing to do an assigned penance (wrong) and making a donation that bothers my conscience (wrong).

Can you provide any direction?

Thank you.**

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

Unfortunately sometimes priests with the best of intentions give non-standard penances that leave penitents feeling caught in a gray area. In this situation the penance is a bit awkward since it could be perceived as turning a sacrament of Christ into a fundraising endeavour. However, sins are forgiven by the sacrament even if the penance is never performed, the doing of penance is not a direct relation to the forgiveness received.
I would recommend going to confession to another priest and explaining that you received a penance that conflicts with your conscience and ask if he can offer a substitute penance.