Questions about Baptism and Reconcilliation

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TruthSeeker612

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I am in RCIA, to recieve baptism, confirmation and first communion at Easter Vigil.

I know that I do not need to make a lifetime confession, because I am to be baptized and all of my sin is washed away in that moment. The thought of speaking the sins of my past life is terrifying and something I was very much dreading. So, when I learned I would not need a confession and that it is all washed away at baptism I was relieved.
But, then I started to feel like I was cheating. I feel like I am getting off too easy. I feel like, since I was so terrified of it, it would be right to face my fear and discuss all my sins with my priest before Easter Vigil, even though I cannot recieve absolution.

Here is my question: Am I justified in feeling like I am “getting off too easy”, or is feeling worried about this in itself somewhat sinful because I am being ungrateful for the amazing gift and Grace given out at baptism?

Should I have a discussion with my priest and talk of my sins generally (that was already planned), but not worry about being specific becuase I will be made anew at baptism? Or should I go into the this meeting like a full confession?

Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.
 
TruthSeeker612 said:
Here is my question: Am I justified in feeling like I am “getting off too easy”, or is feeling worried about this in itself somewhat sinful because I am being ungrateful for the amazing gift and Grace given out at baptism?

Should I have a discussion with my priest and talk of my sins generally (that was already planned), but not worry about being specific becuase I will be made anew at baptism? Or should I go into the this meeting like a full confession?

Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.
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Hi TruthSeeker612,

In reality, you’re not getting off any easier than the rest of us, just a later start, I suppose. It’s good to “get in the habit” of confessing sins, so there’s a good thing in confessing past sins anyway, but baptism will forgive them, of course, so it’s not necessary.

You may consider getting a regular confessor after you’re baptized. Tell him your history and what sins you struggle with, and then make the commitment to confess to him once a month. That’s a great way to make strides in your spiritual life. The accountability alone will do wonders.

Best of luck! Congrats on your decision to join the church! You’re almost there!
 
No your not justified 😉 I understand -but put this aside!

*Repent -believe the Gospel and be Baptized! *

Read in Acts - that is what happened. 🙂

For the forgiveness of all your sins and becoming a new creation in Christ!

Receive the* true life *with thanksgiving!
 
And once your baptized do not confess them!

They are not matter for confession!
 
Bookcat said:
No your not justified 😉 I understand -but put this aside!

*Repent -believe the Gospel and be Baptized! *

Read in Acts - that is what happened. 🙂

For the forgiveness of all your sins and becoming a new creation in Christ!

Receive the true life with thanksgiving!
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Bookcat- Thank you for that. I think a prayerful re-reading of Acts would do wonders. Sometimes you are too hard on yourself and sometimes you are not hard enough on yourself- for me it is very hard to discern where that line is.
 
Confession is for sins committed after baptism (see Canon Law 959)
 
Oh and pray for me today – there is Lenten Confession tonight at my parish 🙂
 
TruthSeeker,

If you do read, or re-read, the Catechism’s section on Baptism, also reflect on the great gift of God’s Mercy and His Love for you. Be at peace, all your sins are completely washed away in the Sacrament of Baptism. There is no need to confess them, the cleansing at Baptism is absolute. What a great way to start out your life as a Catholic.

Yes, after Easter, get into the habit of frequent (maybe monthly) Confession. Even if you don’t commit any mortal sins it will help you conquer your tendencies towards venial sins.

Welcome to the Body of Christ!
 
The Scrutinies on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Sundays of Lent are your opportunity to reflect on your life, see where changes are needed, and repent. Take advantage of these opportunities and – at least for the last one coming up – make it a meaningful time of prayer.
 
SuscipeMeDomine said:
The Scrutinies on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Sundays of Lent are your opportunity to reflect on your life, see where changes are needed, and repent. Take advantage of these opportunities and – at least for the last one coming up – make it a meaningful time of prayer.
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