Valid confession?

[Dranu]

Hey I’m new to confession, and I just did my first. I’m a bit worried I made an invalid confession though. I confessed all my mortal sins to the best of my knowledge, but I felt I withheld a detail that would make the sin alot more embarrasing. However, I did not lie about it, just didn’t mention the detail, but reflecting I feel some guilt that I should have told it.
So my question is, is the whole thing invalid now? Or is it valid, but I should go tell that detail anyhow? Or am I okay?

 

[LilyM]

The detail might be more embarrassing, but that’s beside the point. Was it a detail that changes the nature of the sin, or would maybe change the advice and/or penance you were given? In that case you should go back.

 

[Dranu]

I doubt it would change the nature (same category), but the severity I would think. Do I need to confess everything again though?

 

[jmcrae]

I doubt it would change the nature (same category), but the severity I would think. Do I need to confess everything again though?

Just go back to the priest and tell him what you’ve told us. He will give you the best advice.

After going to Confession several days in a row because of things I forgot to mention, and things I didn’t say in the right words, the advice I was given is to look at whether I did my best at the time - if I did, and if the priest gave me the Absolution, this means that I am absolved of my sins, and I mustn’t worry about it - after all, God knew what I meant, and knew that I was sorry for all of my sins, even if I forgot to mention something or said something the wrong way.

It is very easy to become scrupulous and doubtful, if one is continually second-guessing oneself. Scrupulosity is not very good for one’s spiritual health.

 

[StCsDavid]

Hey I’m new to confession, and I just did my first. I’m a bit worried I made an invalid confession though. I confessed all my mortal sins to the best of my knowledge, but I felt I withheld a detail that would make the sin alot more embarrasing. However, I did not lie about it, just didn’t mention the detail, but reflecting I feel some guilt that I should have told it.
So my question is, is the whole thing invalid now? Or is it valid, but I should go tell that detail anyhow? Or am I okay?

I believe you are fine as far as the confession being valid. Christ knows your heart. You received absolution for all of your sins regardless of how well you described them. You do need to put this behind you, and if returning to the confessional to share this embarrassing detail helps you do that, then by all means return. Remember, there is nothing the priest has not heard. Plus you can always confess behind the screen instead of face to face if that makes sharing the details easier.

 

[Dranu]

I went to confession again and got it cleared up, and I clearly think it was needed. For all you others who feel nervous don’t be. I think the priest was nicer after the confession than before, if thats possible for him . All I have to say is it feels glorious to be rid of my old sins/guilt.