Confession for new Catholics

[RedBasket]

Ok, made my first one a few days ago, and it was a good one. But do I go running to confession every time I have a bad thought? I will drive the poor priest crazy. I was just getting home today, and looked over at a neighbors house, and thought an ugly thought, and it came out verbally, and caught myself right after it came out of my mouth. I don’t wish harm to him, just wish he would quit harassing me. He keeps trying to get my attention, and he’s a bad man. Should I confess what came from my mouth?

 

[Wesrock]

Only when you commit a mortal sin. Stray thoughts don’t necessarily even count as venial sin, unless you indulge them (and they’re no longer stray). It sounds like you nipped this one as soon as you became aware of it. And venial sins are wiped away with the Eucharist.

That said, even if you don’t commit mortal sin, regular confession can still be a good habit. Not out of scrupulosity or fear of all the tiny sin, but just, as I said, good habit, and ways of staying on track and being mindful of yourself.

 

[RedBasket]

You’re so kind, thank you.

 

[phil19034]

If you need help, there is an awesome Confession app for iPhones and androids that has a good list of questions that help you