Confession: Preparing the soul for the reception of
Christ in Communion
Everyone say to himself: ‘When was the last time I went to confession?’ And if it has been a long time, don’t lose another day! Go, the priest will be good. And Jesus, (will be) there, and Jesus is better than the priests – Jesus receives you. He will receive you with so much love! Be courageous, and go to confession!
Pope Francis, 2/9/2014
To worthily receive Christ in the Holy Eucharist, one must be a baptized Catholic in a state of grace. At St. Benedict’s, priests are available to hear confession at least 30 minutes before every Mass, on Sundays as well as Daily Masses as well as after Masses as needed. Lines form outside the confessionals, located at the back of the church.
The Confessionals at St. Benedict’s
Going to confession at St. Benedict’s may remind you of something you have seen in the movies – a screen of anonymity between you and the priest.
You do not need to know Latin to confess at St. Benedict’s, although the priest may say the prayers of absolution in Latin.
How to make a good confession
After making a thorough examination of conscience, kneel in the confessional and start with the phrase “Bless me, Father for I have sinned, it has been [X days/weeks/years] since my last confession.”
Confess your mortal sins by number and kind, and do not be afraid to ask for assistance from a priest if you are struggling with the confession process. As our priests are known to say, they are professionals, they do this for a living.
Resources for Confession
Examination of Conscience for Adults: A Comprehensive Examination Of Conscience Based On Twelve Virtues For The Twelve Months Of The Year – by Rev. Donald Miller C.Ss.R.