Smart or Selfish?

[Richard320]

This has been the week of Communal Penance Services around here.

The usual pattern is some readings, some singing, a homily of sorts, an Examination of Conscience that leaves much to be desired, introduction of the priests, then line up and wait your turn behind 20 or 30 other people.

With my work schedule, it means, get home from work, grab a snack, and rush over to the parish. Or, get home from work, have dinner, relax a bit, drive over to the church and get in line behind one or two people. In and out in 10 minutes.

Last night I did the latter, which I did during Advent as well.

All I want is Confession. I work most Saturdays, so I generally miss the opportunity to just show up and take care of business. Am I being selfish or smart by skipping all the preludes?

 

[smndtupidisaftr]

Well I guess those readings and other things aren’t necessary, but I do know that often these services have a communal act of contrition said because a lot of people don’t know it, so this is a way of expressing penitence and not having to memorize it by the time they get to a priest. So I’m not sure just because of that one aspect, but I would venture to guess that it’s fine?

 

[Mrs_Sally]

You are not obligated to attend the service, but you are obligated to go to confession (once a year, grave sins, etc.)

That said, taking the time to prepare yourself prayerfully before confession is a very good practice. That is what the readings, homily, examine, etc are designed to do. If you choose not to do this as part of the parish service, you still need to do it. Ambling over after dinner with no other preparation is not the best way to go to confession.

 

[Garyjohn2]

If you have a busy schedule, it is smart.
The other parts of the service are nice, and can be quite a beneficial spiritual experience. So, take that in to consideration…but also know that if you are very busy on those days you can spend a different time during the week for prayer and reflection.

 

[PatriceA]

I could see it being both smart and selfish. Smart if there is no other opportunity for you to get to confession. Selfish if it becomes a habit.