Confession Question

[Crusader05]

I have a question. I am seriously thinking about switching from Catholicism to the Episcopal Church, and I would like to know about your concept of confession.

Do you have to make a confession to a priest? As you probably know catholics must do a confession at least once a year in order to gain absolution. How does all this work for the episcopals? I imagine its different but I would like to know for sure.

Thanks for your help in this matter.

[Lel]

Never having gone to confession, I'm not completely familiar with the details, but a common Anglican mantra about it is, "All may, some should, none must." We are not required to go to confession, but may request such if we so desire.

[Crusader05]

Never having gone to confession, I'm not completely familiar with the details, but a common Anglican mantra about it is, "All may, some should, none must." We are not required to go to confession, but may request such if we so desire.

Thanks, that really helps. I like the 'mantra' that makes a lot of sense. I like the idea of confession, of working out your problems with a professional (i.e. a priest), now I dont actually like going and doing it, but I always feel better afterward. Its a comfort to know there is someone there you can share your difficulties with.

However, I dont like the idea that I must go to confession. I guess thats one of my bones with catholicism, the coersive aspect of everything.

[Lel]

Thanks, that really helps. I like the 'mantra' that makes a lot of sense. I like the idea of confession, of working out your problems with a professional (i.e. a priest), now I dont actually like going and doing it, but I always feel better afterward. Its a comfort to know there is someone there you can share your difficulties with.

Yeah, but I'm scared to do it myself really. I mean, I have so many sins... :eek:

However, I dont like the idea that I must go to confession. I guess thats one of my bones with catholicism, the coersive aspect of everything.

That is a fairly common sentiment within Episcopalianism. While we aren't congregational by any stretch of the imagination, there is a bit more freedom for laity participation in the church, and the Archbishop of Canterbury doesn't seem to make authoritatively binding or infallible unilateral statements.

[ChessCastle]

I have a question. I am seriously thinking about switching from Catholicism to the Episcopal Church, and I would like to know about your concept of confession.

Do you have to make a confession to a priest? As you probably know catholics must do a confession at least once a year in order to gain absolution. How does all this work for the episcopals? I imagine its different but I would like to know for sure.

Thanks for your help in this matter.


Confession of Sin is a part of the Eucharistic ceremony. (BCP pg 359-360). If someone feels the need for a private confession they can request it from their priest.

CC

[Fish and Bread]

I have a question. I am seriously thinking about switching from Catholicism to the Episcopal Church

Welcome to STR! Please make yourself at home. :) We have a lot of current and former Roman Catholics who visit this board, so you have a lot of company! I myself was baptised in the Roman Catholic Church as an infant. :)

It looks like other folks have already answered your confession question, so I won't repeat what they said, but if you have any more questions, please feel free to ask! We're happy to answer questions. :)

John

[gitlance]

As far as whether private priestly confession is required, this is our saying concerning it:

All may, some should, none must.

We most heartily make use of the Sacrament of Confession, but it is not required for salvation.

[gtsecc]

However, I dont like the idea that I must go to confession. I guess thats one of my bones with catholicism, the coersive aspect of everything.

Let me give you the typical Anglican answer:
All May.
None Must.
Some Should.

[Crusader05]

Thanks to everyone who responded, I really like the Anglican point of view on this issue and most others.

[Mysterium_Fidei]

We believe the absolution in the Mass forgives sin, as does partaking of Christ himself. However, private confession is still celebrated and may be asked for.

I confess at least twice a year before a priest.

[AngCath]

Confession is a beautiful sacrament.. I may be one of the few episcopalians where I am who has actually taken part.. and although you dont have to, I strongly encourage it.

[Thomas2618]

If I were to answer I would simply be repeating what those before me have already answered. However, I will say this: You are most welcome in the Episcopal Church always. I'm sure you can already picture in your head the signs that are everywhere that say "The Episcopal Church Welcomes You". This sentiment translates in to the people that are a part of the Episcopal Church. They will receive you into their arms most readily. You most certainly will be able to find what you are looking for.

[Crusader05]

If I were to answer I would simply be repeating what those before me have already answered. However, I will say this: You are most welcome in the Episcopal Church always. I'm sure you can already picture in your head the signs that are everywhere that say "The Episcopal Church Welcomes You". This sentiment translates in to the people that are a part of the Episcopal Church. They will receive you into their arms most readily. You most certainly will be able to find what you are looking for.

Thank you, I certinaly hope so. I know episcopals have some kind of get together after service to socialize. I think thats great, most times catholics are racing out the door of the church before the closing hymn is over!

[Crusader05]

Confession is a beautiful sacrament.. I may be one of the few episcopalians where I am who has actually taken part.. and although you dont have to, I strongly encourage it.

Really? If I do switch, which is very likely, I would try to confess to a priest often. Not only because its what I'm used to as a catholic but also because it is a great aid to me personally in dealing with persoanl problems.

[gitlance]

Really? If I do switch, which is very likely, I would try to confess to a priest often. Not only because its what I'm used to as a catholic but also because it is a great aid to me personally in dealing with persoanl problems.

And you will most certainly be welcome to!!!

We also have this other sacrament, Holy Unction, that many parishes offer at least weekly. The RC usually only gives that sacrament in dire circumstances. It is a very healing sacrament, and it is done in the context of confession and Eucharist.

[PaladinValer]

Confession with a priest is just the surest way of receiving Absolution. That doesn't mean He cannot absolute without the need of an ordained cleric, as we are commanded to confess our sins to one another. Going to a priest or bishop is simply the best way because they have the Grace of Holy Orders.

[DarthDigger]

I agree,