Pre-Catholics and Confession

[rayrondini]

Greetings,

I am in the process of entering the Church (RCIA starts next month) and I’m wondering if I am able to receive the sacrament of reconciliation/confession?

Thanks.

 

[LilyM]

Ordinarily this is not possible until you are formally received into the Church - either by baptism or by making the Profession of Faith or what have you. If you are aware of any mortal sins before then, you can certainly seek counselling from a priest but not formal absolution.

However, be at peace. Firstly, say an Act of perfect contrition. Perfect contrition (sorrow for sin that results from love of God rather than fear of hell or other things) also procures the absolution of sins without confession, although the obligation is still there to confess as soon as you are able.

Secondly, rest assured that God does not demand the impossible of us. At this stage you may not be able to receive formal confession but God knows your heart and your sorrow for your sins and I am sure is well-satisfied that you would confess them if able.

 

[quiet52]

If you are already validly baptized, it’s customary that you first receive instruction about the sacrament during your time of catechesis. Usually, candidates for full reception into the Church seek the sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) after your Rite of the Continuing Call to Conversion, which is on the First Sunday of Lent.

But if you have a hunger, talk with the pastor about it.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

Greetings,

I am in the process of entering the Church (RCIA starts next month) and I’m wondering if I am able to receive the sacrament of reconciliation/confession?

Thanks.

If you will be Baptized at the Easter Vigil no Confession is necessary. If you are being received, which can occur at any time. Your pastor will determine when First Confession should take place. Usually about a month to a few weeks before.

 

[puzzleannie]

Ordinarily this is not possible until you are formally received into the Church - either by baptism or by making the Profession of Faith or what have you. If you are aware of any mortal sins before then, you can certainly seek counselling from a priest but not formal absolution.
.

not quite accurate. since baptism removes all sin, original and actual, when you are received into the Church through baptism and confirmation and communion, you are sinless, and will be prepared for confession and learn about the sacrament of penance during the period after Easter, called mystagogy, so that you may benefit from that healing for the rest of your life.

If you are already baptized, and will be entering the Church through profession of faith, confirmation and communion, you must be in a state of sanctifying grace to receive these sacraments, so you will learn about the sacrament of penance and assisted in preparing for your first confession sometime during your preparation process, before the other sacraments.

If you feel the need to confess earlier, simply go to the priest at the normal confession time, or make an appointment with him, and discuss your concern, and he will guide you. In the meantime, follow the rest of this poster’s good advice about the Act of contrition etc.