In an emergency can a lay person give absolution?

[rpin074]

If a person is near death & there is no preist around (for example, passengers are aware their airplane is going down), can an ordinary person hear a person’s confession? I’ve heard this is acceptable, obviously only in extreme situations. Although, someone else told me the ordinary person can listen, but cannot forgive any “mortal” sins - since they can’t administer the sacrament of penance…???. So is the confession “valid?” My husband is teaching his first year of Religous Ed (Jr. High) & one of his students asked this question. We haven’t been able to get a clear answer on it. Thank you in advance. I listen to Catholic Answers everyday on my way home from work. It’s a wonderful show!!! Thanks again.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

Only a priest has the power to forgive sins (Canon 965). If one is in danger of death and no priest is available, one should try to make a perfect act of contrition, i.e., asking for God’s mercy out of love for Him rather than out of fear of punishment.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.