I Did Not Hear the Words of Absolution

[Melvin]

Yesterday I went to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. I realized after I left that I do not actually recall hearing the words of absolution. I do not know if I became distracted or what. I recall make the sign of the cross at the end of the formula for absolution, though…

If I did not hear the words (or don’t recall hearing them) is absolution valid?

I could use some timely real help here…as I hope to receive holy communion this afternoon for the first time in a few months…and if I don’t hear back shortly I’ll probably call Father…but I do not want to disturb him if it is not necessary…besides, it would be embarrassing…

Thank you…

 

[JimG]

Rest assured, your confession and absolution are valid, whether you heard the words of absolution or not.

 

[Fergal]

Not necessary for you to hear them.

Of course it would be nice to hear them but it is not necessary.

Your confession is valid.

 

[Madia]

These sections from the Diary of St. Faustina might help:
catholic-forum.com/churches/cathteach/divinemercy_trust.htm

Since you’ve been away from Holy Communion for a while the devil may be trying to disturb your peace and keep you from Holy Communion. As long as you made a valid confession (confessing all unconfessed mortal sins by kind and [approximate] number) then put your trust in God that you received Absolution. Here’s another section of St. Faustina’s diary that might help:
catholic-forum.com/churches/cathteach/divinemercy_Communion.htm

Also, if you are scrupulous I recommend this list:
mission.liguori.org/newsletters/scrupulosity.htm