Is Confession necessary for forgiveness ?

[t68ware]

Since God is the one who ultimately forgives sin, and Scripture makes it plain that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, why does the Church say it is necessary to go to Confession? Cannot God totally forgive and provide reconciliation? I understand that confessing sins to one another is freeing and takes heavy burdens off our shoulders, but is it not enough to pour your heart and sins to God?

 

[Devon_Caffran]

These links should give you the answers that you need. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by this, please [contact Catholic Answers (http://www.catholic.com/contact/contact-us) directly.
**Recommended Reading:
**

• Confession by the Early Church Fathers
• Forgiveness of Sins
• Is Confession not necessary?