I usually get several questions regarding the Sacrament of Confession (Reconciliation) throughout the year and thought this would be a good time to provide you with the most common answers, just in case any of you had the same questions but were afraid to ask.
Q: Can't I talk to God directly without going to a priest?
A: Not according to the Sacred Scripture - read John 20:21- 23,2 Corinthians 2:10 and 2 Corinthians 5:18. Also, the Church reinforces Christ's command by stating that auricular (hearing of a confession) and oracular (verbally expressed in kind and number) are the norm.
Q: If God knows everything we do, then how come we have to go to Confession?
A: Because humility demands it and a verbal "I'm sorry" to Christ's representative on earth (the priest) demonstrates our sincere contrition.
Q: How often should I go to Confession?
A: Everyone must fulfill their Easter duty by going once a year if in the state of mortal sin. However, even venial sin weakens our bond with Christ. Going twice a year at Advent and Lent is highly recommended for everyone!
Q: I hardly sin. I don't think I need to go to Confession. What if I believe all is well?
A: Then pride has overcome you and has placed your soul in danger of eternal death in Hell. All have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God. Just as physical exercise strengthens the body, so spiritual exercise strengthens the soul.
Q: What makes a mortal sin?
A: Contrary to some people's feelings - sin still exists in each of us and sometimes is very grave or serious (mortal) which breaks the bond of friendship with God. As defined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraph 1857, ‘For a sin to be mortal, three conditions must together be met: "Mortal sin is sin whose object is grave matter and which is also committed with full knowledge and deliberate consent."’
Q: What constitutes grave or mortal sin?
A: Some sins which could be mortal are; purposely missing Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation; sex outside of marriage or pre-marital sex; the viewing of pornography; masturbation; serious theft; abortion and use of artificial means of contraception.; defamation of character or gross gossip which results in the hurt of another's character; and ; using the Lord’s name in vain.
Q: Why focus so much on mortal sin?
A: We are people created by a loving God who calls us to be loving. Sin makes the soul ugly and unappealing. Mercy, grace and Sacramental Confession with forgiveness are God's way to make our inner beauty a bright, appealing star to neighbors, friends and family.
Love more, sin less - by doing this we gravitate toward God and away from evil. When it comes to confessing your sins, the bottom line is this. Don't presume on the mercy of God, playing foot loose and fancy free with your eternal soul. If you haven't been to Confession in a while, get to it already!