Must I reveal my passing thought of suicide in Confession?

[Lisa22]

I know that I must confess every sin I am aware of to my priest but I am afraid to do so. Recently I had a brief but very real thought of suicide, going through a difficult time. I am afraid to confess this openly because I am concerned about being approached during or after confession about it. This has been on my mind so much. I am truly repentant and was during my last confession, but just did not mention having the thought of ending my life. (I have not had another and am certain it was just a momentary weakness brought on by extreme despair) Must I reveal this and can my priest confront me on the issue? Also, I was so upset during this last confession and was reduced to tears by my own despair and even messed up the process of the sacrament and am concerned it was even valid. Father was so kind, but I was a wreck.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

Being tempted is not a sin. You chose not to take your life. There is no sin here. Your Confession sounds quite valid. Such validity does not depend on how we feel about it.

Give thanks to the Lord that you are still here. I will give thanks also.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.