Fr. Nathan Mudd, CPM, shares insights on the healing sacrament
By Roy Rasmussen | For On Mission
During Lent, God calls us to experience renewal in our Christian lives and grow in holiness. One way to do this is to frequent the sacraments, namely, reconciliation. We asked Fr. Nathan Mudd of the Fathers of Mercy (CPM), who taught a Wednesday evening class on the topic of frequent confession at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in the fall, to help answer some frequently asked questions about confession. He reviewed the answers below and shared some of his own insights as well.
When do I need to go to confession?
You must receive the sacrament of reconciliation before receiving the Eucharist if you’re conscious of mortal sin. Because Catholics are required to receive the Eucharist at least once a year during Easter, fulfilling your Easter duty may require prior confession.
How often should I go?
You should confess as soon as possible after committing a mortal sin. To avoid all sin and grow in virtue, strive to go once or more per month.
How do I prepare?
Recall any mortal sins you’ve committed and any venial sins you’re trying to overcome (aided by a list, if needed, such as the examination of conscience guide published by the Fathers of Mercy), and make an act of contrition.
What do I say?
Tell the priest how long it’s been since your last confession, what mortal sins you’ve committed and how often, and any venial sins you want to prioritize (such as a particular bad habit).
What do I do after?
Do the penance the priest assigns you as soon
as possible.
What if I forgot a sin, forgot my penance, or forgot to do it?
At your next confession, tell the priest what you forgot and follow his instructions. “Don’t be overly worried,” Fr. Mudd said. “The priest at your next confession can help you set your conscience at peace. If you forgot your penance, you can still try to do it at the next opportunity or ask the priest at your next confession.” You can avoid future anxiety over forgotten sins by making a habit of mentioning at the end of each confession that you’re sorry for any sins you can’t remember.
What if I don’t feel forgiven after confession?
Receiving absolution depends on God’s grace and your will’s cooperation rather than your feelings, so if you made a good confession, know that you’re forgiven.
What if I don’t feel sorry for my sins?
Contrition depends on your will rather than your feelings, so you don’t have to feel sorry emotionally to make a good confession. “Sorrow for sin is an act of the will, not a feeling, which detests our sins and desires not to do them again,” Fr. Mudd said.
What if I end up confessing the same sins over and over?
As long as you’re sincerely trying, God forgives you. To cultivate sincerity, resolve to avoid sin and take concrete steps to avoid your most serious or frequent sins.
What are some common confession mistakes to avoid?
Some common mistakes to avoid when going to confession are: failing to examine your conscience, being vague about which mortal sins you’ve committed and how often, and doubting God’s mercy.