Reconciliation Question

[dean24us]

Hello! I have only been Catholic since this past Easter, so I apologize if this is a “remedial” question. I realize that the purpose of going to confession is to seek absolution for one’s sins, but is it an acceptable forum to also ask advice on things not directly related to sins that have been committed? Don’t get me wrong – I’m sure my priest wouldn’t kick me out of confession if I used our time together to both seek absolution as well as advice – but I didn’t want to waste his time if there was another more appropriate way to get his advice privately.

Best wishes,
Dean

 

[mom2em]

I cannot REALLY tell you as I don’t REALLY know any sort of official answer. But, what if you called and made an appointment with Father outside of confession? That might be easier and then you wouldn’t feel as though you were wasting his time.

 

[dconklin]

Good question. If you are going to confession during the regularly scheduled time and there is a line, it may not be the best time to seek spiritual direction/instruction. I would try to schedule an appointment with a priest and ask for both direction/instruction and reconciliation.

Welcome to the Church and keep on asking questions. Someday soon you will be answering questions.

 

[Bookcat]

Here is the CCC on confession…It is a great text:

vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P46.HTM

keep hitting next.

As to the question of direction. Yes one can ask questions in confession …they do not need to be about the sins confessed…they can be just moral issues one needs direction on or wants to ask.

 

[Mrs_Sally]

Yes, you can ask questions and often the priest will give advice pertinent to your confession that will help with other issues.

BUT, confession is not a counselling session. If you have specific questions you feel would take more than 10 minutes to ask and discuss, I would highly recommned making an appointment. That will give you the time you need to get your questions asked and answered, allow the priest to be prepared for the type of discussion you want to have, and be considerate of others waiting for confession at the normal time.

 

[77stanthony77]

Now and in the past if I feel strongly about the matter, I will ask the priest. Sometimes during the week either I will call or E-Mail, or I will ask the priest after mass. It just depends. I sure do miss Father Kelley

 

[Angel_Bradford]

Because of the limited time for regular confessions, most priests I know prefer that you call and make an appointment so they can allow more time for counseling and spiritual direction.

 

[dean24us]

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone for the feedback – I really appreciate it!

Dean