Confession

[MirMom]

I have not been to confession in a LONG time. I want to start going, but I have many sins to confess since I have not been in so long. Do I confess all of my sins at one time or separate them into different confessions? Should I make an appointment for confession instead of going during “open hours” because of the length of my confession? Also, I would have to bring my 14 month old daughter with me because my husband works during the day. Is this frowned upon? I have not been to confession since I was in Catholic grade school, and am nervous about going so I want to make sure that I know what I am doing.

 

[LilyM]

God bless! I myself went through a period of 12 years where I didn’t go to confession. It certainly wasn’t easy that first time back, but well worth it. Feel free to tell the priest that you’re nervous, and that you haven’t been in a long time, and if you’re unsure about the procedure he’ll be happy to walk you through the whole thing.

As far as confession goes you need to confess all your sins at once, since confession is actually invalid unless you confess ALL your mortal (serious) sins that you can remember.

On the bright side you need only confess mortal sins, or sins that you think may be serious, not the minor stuff. Given that your confession is likely to be a long (or slightly long) one it is a wise move to make an appointment outside of scheduled hours.

As for your daughter - I’m guessing she’s probably not old enough to repeat things that you’ve said in the confessional. So it should be fine to take her with you, but it’s polite to ask if you can bring her, when you make your appointment.

 

[MirMom]

Thank you! I am really glad that I asked about this before I went!

 

[acadian]

Lily had given you good advice.

It is OK to “group” your sins… ie - ‘I had sex outside of marriage for a period of 4 years’, instead of going into each and every instance. That might help with the length.

I returned after an absence of 8 years, and it really didn’t take all that long. I had done plenty of things wrong, but for the most part, it was the same things over and over. For that confession, I mostly stuck to the “big” (mortal) things.

Check before you bring your daughter. Some priests, it won’t bother at all, and others may have an issue with it. If you could find a sitter (or maybe make an appointment in the evening when your husband could watch her), it might be better because then you could give your entire focus to the matter at hand - without distractions.

These might be of help to you (or someone else in the same boat):
frpat.com/reconciliation.htm
www.cmonback.com

You’ll be in my prayers!

 

[hilde_the_dog]

You probably should set up an appointment especially if you have questions. It really is not fair to others if you are in the confessional for a half hour an cause them to miss confession.

 

[PeterMuz]

You probably should set up an appointment especially if you have questions. It really is not fair to others if you are in the confessional for a half hour an cause them to miss confession.

Hey, you may think about saying that in a way that is less rude. Its hard for someone to do what this person is doing. I’m not saying you are wrong, but the way you said that was not cool.

 

[Sr_Sally]

If you need to make a general confession, it is best to make an appointment so that the priest can set aside more time. He will also then be prepared to lead you through the confession. Your daughter shouldn’t be a problem–maybe bring a quiet toy for her to play with.

I will be praying for you! So happy that you are returning to the Sacraments!