Who thinks priests and ministers should tell police about murder and crime confessions?

Question

I am a Catholic and understand completely how the people deserve the church's trust, especially when it comes to confession time. But in such instances like the OJ Simpson trial, where Simpson had apparently confessed to a minister about the murder but it couldn't be used as evidence due to the "secrecy" behind it all, I think that it doesn't matter who the hell the suspect tells because all of society would benefit from having these criminals off the street. I would think even a priest would have the logic to tell the police about a confession, because it would simply be the right thing to do..even if it IS against church regulations.
What do you think about this?

Answer 1

I think that its their duty.

I also can't understand why priests hear confession in the first place. 1 Timothy 2:5 states "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus".

That aside, confession should not be a substitute for justice.

Answer 2

If a priest can break the seal of a confessional - then your attorney and doctor would have to tell all your secrets too.

Because a confessional is sacred, a criminal can confess to a priest and seek guidance. A priest is not going to say- OK, say a few hail Marys and your absolved. Most likely a priest would encourage the criminal to go to the police and accept responsibility for his actions. That's the only way the sin would be absolved.

So, as a Catholic, I disagree.

Answer 3

It's not just about church regulations.

The reason that the law recognizes the evidentiary privilege of confession is that the law believes its a good thing for people to seek counseling -- same reason that the lawyer-client and psychologist-patient privileges exist.

And as both a minister and an attorney, I see too well the value and need for people being able to speak in confidence with an advisor and seek some form of emotional balance.

Answer 4

a complex question. if a priest or minster hears confession of a killer and absolves him, this is ridiculous. there is suppose to be repercussion forr crimes and criminals. they should impose some punishment on them even if they won't report them.

what if a priest or minsters, lawyer etc, has knowledge that someone plans to commit more crimes or is going to blow up people, what then, do they feel no moral or ethical obligation for those that will be affected. i think it is tantamount to assisting the criminal. nothing is black and white and there are moral actions that would take precedence over spiritual or legal ones.

Answer 5

Priests cant tell the authorities... if that happens, no one will confess to them anymore... since your catholic and you believe in GOD.... its up to God to judge the criminal, even if the priest doesnt stand as witness...
by the way im a Christian too...

Answer 6

Priests know that God will punish the criminal for crimes they have committed.

And as far as I know, if they are aware of any intent to commit a capital crime, priests and attorneys and counselors are required to notify the authorities to protect the victims.

Answer 7

You mean become even MORE self righteous than they already are?

If they did, they might as well close shop, because salvation and forgiveness are still their bread and butter, not collaboration.

Answer 8

Yep, I'm a Catholic, too, and I whole-heartedly agree.

Answer 9

i dont agree. if they cant even trust priests then who r they gonna trust? shrinks...no. i think its their duty to listen and not judge

Answer 10

If the priest does not tell he becomes accessory