The Mystery of Repentance
Confession, also called the Mystery (Sacrament) of Repentance or Penance, is the sacrament through which Christians confess their sins to God in the presence of a priest and receive absolution. It is not primarily about listing wrongs but about healing the soul. The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, means a change of mind—a turning of the heart back to God.
Why Confess to a Priest?
God forgives sins, not the priest. But Christ gave the apostles authority to bind and loose (Matthew 18:18), and this ministry continues through the bishops and priests. The priest is a witness, not a judge—he stands with you before God. Confessing aloud to another person makes repentance concrete and accountable. It humbles pride and opens the heart to grace.
Preparing for Confession
Before confession, examine your conscience. Review your life since your last confession. Consider not only obvious sins (anger, lust, lying) but also sins of omission (failing to pray, to love, to give). Some people use the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, or a written examination as guides. Be honest; the priest has heard it all before.
What Happens During Confession
The penitent stands before an icon of Christ with the priest beside them (not facing them, as in a courtroom). After a prayer, the penitent confesses their sins aloud. The priest may ask clarifying questions, offer counsel, or assign a spiritual remedy (epitimia)—such as increased prayer, prostrations, or fasting. Then the priest pronounces absolution, placing his stole over the penitent's head.
Absolution
The prayer of absolution declares God's forgiveness and reconciles the penitent to Christ and the Church. In the Russian tradition, the priest prays, 'May our Lord and God, Jesus Christ, through the grace and compassion of His love for mankind, forgive you all your transgressions; and I, an unworthy priest, by His power given unto me, do forgive and absolve you from all your sins.'
How Often to Confess
Orthodox Christians are expected to confess regularly—at minimum before receiving Holy Communion and during the fasting seasons (especially Great Lent). Many confess monthly or more often. Frequent confession prevents small sins from becoming habitual and keeps the soul oriented toward God.
Confidentiality
The seal of confession is absolute. A priest may never reveal what is confessed to him, under any circumstances. This sacred trust allows the penitent to be completely honest. The confessional is a place of total safety and mercy.
After Confession
After receiving absolution, thank God for His mercy. Follow any guidance the priest gave. Receive Holy Communion worthily. Remember that confession is not a license to sin again but a fresh start. The goal is not repeated forgiveness for the same sins but gradual transformation into the likeness of Christ.