Q: Our priest has told us he doesn’t want us to go to confession with him if we are going to confess the same sins every time. I thought I’d read or heard in a religion class that it was OK to confess the same sin until you no longer commit it. Some guidance would be helpful. Thank you. – Barb

Answered by Fr. Edward McIlmail, LC

A: The Catechism in No. 1458 is worth quoting here:

“Without being strictly necessary, confession of everyday faults (venial sins) is nevertheless strongly recommended by the Church. Indeed the regular confession of our venial sins helps us form our conscience, fight against evil tendencies, let ourselves be healed by Christ and progress in the life of the Spirit.”

It’s not unusual for people to confess the same sins, since old habits die hard. The struggle against bad habits can help keep us humble and close to the sacraments.

That said, it’s unusual that this priest seems to have publicized such a preference. Technically he is wrong. People are free to confess the same sins.

Moreover, canon law states that the faithful have a right to the sacraments. Canon 843 §1 says, “Sacred ministers cannot deny the sacraments to those who seek them at appropriate times, are properly disposed, and are not prohibited by law from receiving them.”

Perhaps that priest is swamped with work and hopes to dissuade penitents who tend to be long-winded in the confessional, while a long line of penitents is kept waiting.

I’m not saying that you are long-winded; I’m just trying to guess at the motives of the priest.

A few suggestions might be worth considering:

First, try to plan your confession well and keep it concise.

Second, try looking for another confessor, perhaps in another parish.

Third, pray for vocations. We need more priests so that will be enough confessors in the future.

And pray for that priest. He might indeed be overworked.