Holy Confession

The Mystery of Repentance

Confession is one of the Mysteries of the Church, a sacrament of healing and reconciliation. Through it, the faithful return to God with repentance and receive forgiveness of sins, not from man, but from Christ Himself, who works through His ordained ministers.

Every human being falls into sin—“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). But in His love, Christ does not leave us in our brokenness. He calls us to repentance, to rise again, to be healed and restored. St. John Chrysostom teaches that repentance and confession are like a second baptism, a cleansing bath of the soul.

Confession is not a legal trial, nor is the priest a judge. The confessor is a fellow-struggler and physician’s assistant, who stands with the penitent before the merciful Christ. The true Confessor is Christ Himself. The priest listens, offers counsel, and then reads the Prayer of Forgiveness, by which the penitent is freed from the burden of sin.

Repentance must be genuine: not only words, but contrition of heart and the resolve to turn back to God. The tears of repentance are considered by the Fathers as healing medicine for the soul.

Who Can Hear Confession

• Confession may be received only by a Bishop or a Priest who has been blessed by his Bishop to serve as a Confessor.

• The priest is bound by absolute confidentiality; the “seal of confession” is inviolable.

Why Confession is Healing

Sin wounds the soul and damages our communion with God and others. Confession is the medicine of immortality that restores us to health. The Mystery of Repentance heals our spiritual wounds, reconciles us to Christ, and restores our place in the Body of the Church.

As Christ Himself taught: “There is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance” (Luke 15:7).

In confession, we discover the true freedom of the children of God: to be forgiven, renewed, and healed in Christ, again and again.

Practical Information

• Confession is arranged directly with the parish priest or with the Metropolitan’s office.

• It is recommended to confess before receiving Holy Communion, especially during fasting seasons.

• Children should also learn the practice of confession from an early age, as a way of forming a life of repentance and humility.