Do I really need to confess this now?

[rlynne]

Hi Father Serpa,

I was not baptized until just before I was married. My parents were of 2 different religions and therefore I was never baptized. I decided to become Roman Catholic.  I didn't really start going to church weekly until the last couple of years.  I am raising my children in the faith. Two of my children attend catholic schools and the other is in college. I finally got up the courage to go to confession after so many years.  As a matter of fact I went twice so far.  But now here is my problem.  I know the differences between mortal and venial sins but I have one sin (which is classified as mortal) that I have not confessed.  At the time I knew it was wrong but because I was new to the catholic faith I didn't realize it was a mortal sin which needs to be confessed now.  I feel embarrassed to ask for forgiveness for something that happened so long ago and will never happen again.  Also keep in mind the 2 confessions I had were face to face.  I guess I am looking for your advice on how to handle this.  I'm not sure if I will be able to actually say it to the Priest.  I am usually the type that needs to be pushed into things.  I read all the questions on this site but this is my first time asking a question.  I would really appreciate your response to this.

Thank you and God Bless You,
RLynne

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

If confessing face to face is difficult, then go to Confession behind the screen–at least for this sin. Many people go behind the screen. The sin is already forgiven from the absolution you have received, but you do need to humbly acknowledge it before the priest who represents Christ. Priests hear everything. He will hardly be shocked. Get to it , now! If you knew you were to die at the end of the week, you would confess it right away. Well, we don’t know that you aren’t going to die at the end of the week. We don’t know those things. You are in my prayers.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.