Is it ok to cry during Confession?

[Ina_B]

Hi. I’m a newbie around here

Have you ever cried during/after confession or have known someone who does? Is it okay to cry?

I cried the last time I went to confession, and it was embarrassing. It was the first time I cried, but the priest wasn’t getting angry or anything. He asked me why I was crying, and of course I didn’t know how to answer. When I came out of the confessional everyone was staring at me and asking, and then afterwards one of my teachers also talked to me privately asking what happened in there. I want to confess soon, and I’m sort of held back by that experience. Help…?

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

As a confessor I can assure you that it is not uncommon for people to cry in Confession (men as well as women)–especially if they are dealing with a difficult problem or are greatly relieved. Don’t worry about it.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.