Most of the Catholic world has the Sacrament of Penance on Saturdays at their local parish. I usually make use of the nearest Catholic church for confession on Saturdays. I have met Jesus in this Sacrament many times, I try to make frequent use of it and try to never have more than 2 weeks go by without going even if I have no serious sin to confess. I have gone to confession more in the last 1.5 years than in my entire life combined.
Since I have returned to the faith I have had the opportunity to have penance in the older form as well as the new form, I have had my confession heard in various locations, for example: rectory, church office, gym, convention center, Seminary rector’s office, sacristy, parish hall, and a few other odd places I’m sure I cant recall. Very rarely will I sit for the sacrament, no matter where I am, I prefer to kneel (just like when I take communion FTR ) even if its face to face. After reflecting I must say I enjoy the “Ordinary Form” of confession - with an orthodox Catholic priest - to the “Extraordinary form”. Probably the only Sacrament I prefer in the new form.
I think my preference stems from my lack of fluency in Latin. The new form of Absolution goes a little something like this:
God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his Son has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, + and of the Holy Spirit.
I must say that every time I hear those words it sends chills down my spine, in a good way. I don’t have any more of an explanation than that, I know we should not rely on feelings for determining roles in our religious life -especially confession- yet these are the words that draw me to the newer form. In all honestly I know it doesn’t matter if the absolution is given in English or Latin, the problem I have run into is that some priests- just like they do with their liturgy- take certain liberties with the form. I have heard various things like: Jesus Forgives you, I take your sins upon myself, or just simply the “I absolve you in the name…”. While I always try to ensure that my absolution is valid - the minimum needed for validity is the “I absolve you in the name…” the priest has no right to change or omit the words that the church has laid out for him to use. This is something very important, I beg you dear readers to ensure that you are having the correct words of absolution said.
I conclude with one last remark - In the new form (and possibly the older form) there is a dismissal prayer that also brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it- however rare it is:
May the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and of all the saints, whatever good you do and suffering you endure,heal your sins, help you to grow in holiness, and reward you with eternal life.
Go in peace.
If you have heard this dismissal before let me know in the combox, I’m curious as to how common it really is. I always enjoy your comments and questions, don’t be shy!
For your benefit check out Fr. Z’s 20 Tips for making a good confession
