12.4.4 Confession

In religious language, "confession" refers to the acknowledgement of sins or the admission of one's guilt in the presence of a clergyman. This is subject to a strict obligation of confidentiality.

No confession is needed for the forgiveness of sins. Nevertheless, if someone is unable to find peace on account of certain especially burdensome events, he has the option of turning directly to the Apostle and confessing to him in person or in writing.

In cases of special urgency in which the Apostle cannot be reached–for example in the case of the dying–any priestly minister can, as an exception, take the confession and proclaim absolution. The Apostle will be informed about this act immediately thereafter.

SUMMARY

In religious language, confession is an acknowledgement of sins or an admission of guilt in the presence of a clergyman. (12.4.4)

No such confession is necessary for forgiveness of sins. Nevertheless, if an individual is unable to find inner peace, he can turn to the Apostle and confess before him. (12.4.4)

In exceptional cases, any priestly minister can take confession. (12.4.4)