Can you help me understand this penance I received?

[Spedslayer]

I’m not sure how to interpret the penance my priest gave me. He said that I should seek counseling for a habitual sin and then said that it was his pastoral suggestion that I do so. Then he said “for the other sins” say a series of prayers.

I guess I have a couple questions. Should that be interpreted as a penance requirement and can it be a valid penance requirement? Also, does finding a spiritual adviser satisfy it? Unfortunately, I have very little money and am unable to afford the counseling, which is not offered through the diocese either. Please let me know.

God bless,
John

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi John,

He said that the first part was a suggestion. That’s all it is. The prayers he gave you are the penance.

You are not obligated to follow a suggestion. I suggest that you log on to the following link. You might be able to find a Catholic therapist in your area who charges on a sliding scale.

catholictherapists.com/Find-A-Therapist.html

You are in our prayers.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.