About #confession and #repentance
👉 Question፦ How often are we supposed to confess? I always assumed we must confess to a priest the day before we take the Eucharist every single time. But I heard from a great Coptic priest that the recommended amount is at least 4x a year while focusing on personal repentance daily.
Answer፦ Beloved in Christ,
Your question touches the very core of our journey toward salvation, one that is paved with humility and repentance. In the life of the Orthodox Church, confession is not merely a ritual but a profound encounter with Christ's mercy and forgiveness. It is essential to understand that the frequency of confession, while guided by the Church's wisdom, also depends on one's personal spiritual needs and struggles.
As the great Saint John Chrysostom teaches, "Repentance is the renewal of baptism. Repentance is a contract with God for a second life." This profound insight illuminates the significance of confession in our lives. It is indeed a means to renew ourselves in God's grace continuously.
While the Coptic tradition wisely advises confessing at least four times a year, this is a guideline, not a strict rule. The key is to approach confession with a heart earnestly seeking transformation, not just as a formality before receiving the Eucharist. Daily personal repentance is vital, as it cultivates a contrite heart and a conscious awareness of God's presence in every moment of our lives.
Therefore, engage in frequent confession with a sincere desire to grow closer to God, allowing the grace of the Holy Spirit to guide you in this sacramental life. The frequency can indeed vary; some may find it beneficial to confess more often, especially before each partaking of the Holy Eucharist, to prepare their hearts and souls to receive Christ fully.
Now, dear soul, as you reflect on this, how might you incorporate a more profound understanding and practice of confession into your spiritual journey, bringing you closer to the embrace of our Lord?
May the name of the Holy God be praised forever and ever, today and always.
May the blessings of the Holy Mother of God, the Virgin, and the Cross be upon us. Amen.
© John's Repentance
Reach out to us on our social media platforms and share it with your friends: https://linktr.ee/johnsrepentance