How to confess after extended period of time

[Cdean]

What is the proper way to confess sins if you haven’t been to confession in a long time? Must you be specific to each sin and how many times it was committed? Or can you generalize?

I haven’t been to confession in over 25 years. Is difficult to confess things that were done so long ago as i cant remember specific number of times or details. Just that they were committed. Is it ok to to confess committing the sins without being specific to catch up sort to speak? Its a tough situation because i want to be honest but cant recall everything.

I was raised catholic and just now started realizing my faith to be true. A series of event past and present have lead to this. If your interested i have been keeping a blog of my struggles.
coldturkeydiary.blogspot.com/

 

[teachccd]

Once the priest knows that it has been a while, he should help you through. It would be a good idea to do a good examination of conscience before you go. Mention those sins that you know were the most offensive to God. State the number of times by saying that you did such and such once a day for "x"number of years and so forth. The number of times allows the priest to know how to counsel you in order that you get on the right path.

You can generalize but for the most part be as specific as you can. To say that you committed adultery is too broad. Specifics might include pornography, lustful thoughts, masturbation etc. The same with the other commandments. Be specific enough for the priest to understand your struggles but you need not be graphic in your details.

You will do just fine. Your priest should anticipate your being nervous and help you through. May God bless you and you will be in my prayers. The main thing is that you are going. Let God be God and you will be just fine…Peace…teachccd