Someone should write a book called:
“ The Little Train that could…go to confession!”
Is anyone else terrified of confession? I can’t be the only convert that makes up a million excuses for why I can’t make it to confession on a regular basis.
The Screamers needs a diaper change.
The Princess needs to be fed.
I want to see Fr. X instead of Fr. Y.
The floor needs to be moped.
My moms group has begun to meet every second Saturday to help each other get to confession by watching each others kids. It is one less excuse for missing confession.
I understands the theological significance and importance of regularly participating in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. For some reason the Protestant in me still has hard time with the actual act of going to confession. Reconciliation is just that, a chance to renew the broken relationship with God caused by sin. It is not a punishment but a chance to say “I’m sorry, please forgive me.”
Who wouldn’t want to experience the relief of forgiveness, you ask? People who are scared. I’m scared of admitting I’ve made mistakes, I’m scared to say them out loud, and I’m scared the priest will look at me and say:
“It’s been HOW long since your last confession!”
Or better yet:
“You have no idea what you are doing, go away!”
When you tell someone how you have sinned, when you admit you have fallen, you will be held accountable. I am hoping that by sharing my weakness for avoiding confession I will feel a little more accountable for my actions. Hopefully, next time, when I see the little light on in the corner of the church I will walk towards the light instead of hiding from the One who is the Light of the World.
As a side note:
If you want a good book on the Sacrament of Reconciliation try:
“Beginning Again” by Catherine Doherty. I originally wanted to quote something from her book, but it was all so good, how could I choose?!
Hey, I just came across your blog. I know this is an old post, but I had to comment. I'm not a convert, and I hate going to confession. I mean, I love the results and I always have this great sense of relief and peace afterwards, but I have to talk myself into it every single time. Sometimes, while I'm in line waiting, I have to pray for the Grace to stay in line. It always feel so awkward and I don't think I'm doing it "right". I only go every couple of months because of it. Our priest gave a homily on Confession last Sunday, and now I'm even more nervous. He asked how many of people had been turned away without absolution and told us that he had. Talk about humiliating! Anyway, thanks for the book recommendation and I've enjoyed finding your blog.
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