1
Reconciliation
Through sincere repentance, our communion with God and our relationships with others begin to be restored.
The Holy Mysteries
Holy Confession
Reconciliation, healing and a renewed relationship with God.
Returning to God
The Sacrament of Healing
As members of the Church, we have responsibilities to one another and, above all, to God. When we sin, our relationship with God and with other people becomes distorted.
Sin is ultimately an alienation from God, from our fellow human beings and from our own true self, which was created in God's image and likeness. Confession is the Holy Mystery through which our sins are forgiven and these relationships are restored and strengthened.
Through Confession, Christ continues to heal those who are broken in spirit and restores the Father's love to those who have wandered away. It is not simply an admission of wrongdoing, but a return to communion, spiritual health and new life in Christ.
The Gift of Confession
Forgiveness and Restoration
2
Forgiveness
The penitent confesses to God and receives forgiveness from God through the sacramental life of the Church.
3
Healing
Confession treats sin as a spiritual wound and offers healing, direction and strength for the Christian life.
The Role of the Priest
According to Orthodox teaching, the penitent confesses to God and is forgiven by God. The priest serves as the sacramental witness who represents both Christ and His people.
The priest is not present primarily as a judge. He is a spiritual physician and guide who listens, offers counsel and helps the person move toward repentance, healing and a closer relationship with Christ.
A Spiritual Father
It is an ancient Orthodox practice for every Christian to have a spiritual father to whom one can turn for spiritual advice, prayer and counsel.
Over time, this relationship can help a person recognize recurring spiritual struggles, grow in self-knowledge and develop a faithful life of prayer, repentance and participation in the Holy Mysteries.
How Often Should I Go to Confession?
Confession may take place on many occasions. Its frequency is discerned by each person in consultation with his or her spiritual father. Regular Confession should be approached as part of an ongoing life of repentance, rather than something reserved only for moments of crisis.
In the event of serious sin, Confession is a necessary preparation before receiving Holy Communion. If you are uncertain, speak privately with the priest.
Before Confession
Preparing Your Heart
- Pray and ask God to help you see your sins honestly, without excuses and without despair.
- Reflect on your relationship with God, your family, your neighbours and the responsibilities entrusted to you.
- Come with sincerity and a desire to repent—not merely to list mistakes, but to seek healing and change.
- Speak openly with the priest and receive his pastoral counsel with prayer and humility.
Arrange a Confession
Contact Fr. Ted
Contact Fr. Ted privately to ask a question or arrange a suitable time for Confession.