Lengthy Confession

[SimonX]

I am a Newbie, so if you’d all indulge me for a moment, I would like to give my 2 cents. I agree with the poster who goes in, confesses his sins and leaves it up to the Priest. I don’t want to say it’s wrong or rude for one confessor to take up all of the confession hour, but there might be others outside in line who are also anxious to make their confessions. All that is really necessary, if there are time constraints, is for the confessor to confess all serious sins, number of times if known, ect. and receive penance and absolution. Again, not trying to down play the Priest helping one over come a sinful habit. I was once in a confession during Holy Week, I knew there was a long line behind me, so I told the Priest there were others waiting and I think he appreciated knowing he was going to be busy and tried to keep things moving. I was happy I had the chance to receive the Sacrament and felt I had made a good confession.

PS. We have a church here that offers confessions during mass, 2 Priests. I ve never gone during Mass, but it’s nice to have the opportunity if one can’t go any other time… Thanks All

 

[lovesMary]

I really don’t think confession is the time for a counseling session. Maybe you can find a spiritual director to give you the in depth time you need. Just say your sins and be cleansed.

 

[puzzleannie]

yes confession is the place for counselling on avoiding sin, battling temptation, making reparation, practicing virtue etc., anything that relates to the matter of confession. No it is not the place for general marriage counselling, psychological therapy etc. The priest has been trained and can be trusted to use the time wisely, and for the benefit of the penitent. If there is a Mass coming up, of course he will check his watch, and if necessary invite the penitent, and anyone standing in line, to come back after Mass. the advice still holds, state sins in kind and number, and if the priest needs more detail he will ask for it.