Should Christians have confessions with their Pastors?

Question

I myself am a Christian, however I have many Catholic friends, hence where my question is coming from.

I don't agree with much of what is taught in Catholic churches. I know that we ourselves are capable of speaking directly to God, to confess, and ask for his forgiveness. However, it makes me wonder if confessions, especially private ones, would not help deal with guilt, and give motivation to continue in the right path?

Many of us are often carrying guilt, and are to embarrassed to speak openly about our sins. Pastor's will speak with us, and offer us counsel, however, facing them is often difficult; not to mention openly speaking of our sins with others from our congregation.

I think having a discreet outlet to confess, and feel relieved, would make it a lot easier for some to seek help. Any thoughts?

Answer 1

I concur with most of what u said but I still think also as a Christian that confession is good for ones soul personally. When one confesses his/her sin their relieve themself of the burden of carrying their sin alone. Although the man/woman whether a Pastor, priest, Bishop or just a friend can't absorb one of the sin their can guide one to feel better about oneself and the burden of carrying the sin alone forever more. It is always better to hear that God has forgiven u of all sin by an authorized member of the clergy instead of just reading it. The human or personal contact always seems to make things better for the heart and soul of a person.

Answer 2

well, I would say no and yes at the same time. If your pastor is a man and you are a woman, it would make confessions about sexual sins a bit awkward and possibly dangerous don't you think? I think we should confess our sins to each other. Maybe someone who has a kind of seniority over you.

It's good to know your Pastor well, but because we are human that gender thing will come into to play.

A female Pastor and a female. ABSOLUTELY. I did it in college. My Campus Pastor was (well there were 2, married couple) a woman. So that was great!!!!

Answer 3

No Catholic believes that a priest simply as an individual man, however pious or learned, has power to forgive sins. This power belongs to God alone; but He can and does exercise it through the ministration of men. Since He has seen fit to exercise it by means of this sacrament, it cannot be said that the Church or the priest interferes between the soul and God; on the contrary, penance is the removal of the one obstacle that keeps the soul away from God.

Answer 4

Your sins should be between yourself and God. No one else. If you need to speak to someone, sure, your pastor is probably the one to go to. If you have guilt, you can talk to someone about it, but you don't have to confess it to someone for God to accept it, or hear it.

Answer 5

Your sins are between you and God and I do not believe any man here on Earth has the ability to forgive them in the name of God. When you pray to God confess your sins to Him and ask for His forgiveness.

Answer 6

No, there is no need to confess. God knows all your sins. So as long as you Repent of those sins and try not to do 'em again you'll be ok. But be strong in your faith and in your prayers.

Answer 7

I'm a Catholic and I dont practice the Confessing to a Priest part. I know alot of Catholics that dont. I feel that we can talk to God whenever and that he lets us repent personally.

Answer 8

no. i find that writing down your thoughts helps out with what your talking about: embarrasment, guilt, whatever? if somethings bothering you just write it in a diary or right it on paper and burn it if you don't want to keep it :)

Answer 9

I can keep a secret. Tell me your sins.