Confession
The Mystery of Repentance: how to prepare, what happens, and when to go.
The Mystery of Repentance
Confession in the Orthodox Church is a sacrament (a Holy Mystery), not a legal transaction.
You confess to God in the presence of the priest, who serves as a witness and spiritual physician.
The priest does not judge. He prays with you and offers counsel.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
How to Prepare
Examine your conscience. Ask: Where have I fallen short of loving God and my neighbor?
Do not prepare a legal case. You are not defending yourself. You are asking to be healed.
Some people write a list. This can help if you are nervous. Bring it if it helps. The priest may take it and tear it up after reading it.
Common areas to examine:
Prayer
Have I prayed regularly? Have I been distracted or careless in prayer?
Fasting
Have I kept the fasts? Have I fasted with humility or with pride?
Relationships
Have I been angry, jealous, or unforgiving? Have I gossiped?
Honesty
Have I lied, cheated, or stolen? Have I been truthful with myself?
Body
Have I been intemperate with food, drink, or physical pleasures?
Church
Have I attended services? Have I received communion while unreconciled with someone?
What Happens During Confession
You stand before an icon of Christ and a cross, with the priest beside you (not facing you).
The priest reads a prayer inviting you to confess.
You speak your sins aloud. You may use your list. There is no formula. Speak plainly.
The priest may ask questions for understanding (not interrogation). He may offer counsel.
When you finish, the priest places his stole (epitrachelion) over your head and reads the prayer of absolution.
Some priests tear up your written list afterward. The sins are forgiven and gone.
When to Confess
Before receiving Holy Communion (required in most Orthodox parishes).
During Great Lent, many parishes offer confession before or after Lenten services.
By appointment with your priest at any time.
There is no fixed schedule. Some people confess monthly, some before every communion, some less often. Your priest will help you find a rhythm.
For Catechumens
Catechumens are not yet able to receive the sacrament of confession. This comes after baptism and chrismation.
You can still speak with your priest about your spiritual life. This is encouraged.
The examination of conscience above is useful practice now. Self-examination is the beginning of repentance.
After Confession
Do not return to guilt over confessed sins. They are forgiven.
The prayer of absolution is not the priest's opinion. It is God's action through the priest.
"As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us" (Psalm 103:12).
Go in peace. Receive communion when your priest directs.