The Reconciliation of a Penitent (Sacramental Confession)
‘Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.’ (Mark 1.15)
The joy of the Confessional is the grace of God made available through the cross and ministered to the penitent so that they can receive reassurance of forgiveness and salvation and so make a fresh start in living the Christian life. Integral to the rite is the Seal that binds the priest (but not the penitent) never to reveal what she or he has heard in the Confessional.
The Diocese of Chichester is participating in a House of Bishops pilot, which will regulate the Confessional and so ensure that it is a safe place for all. The pilot has been offered in response to understandable reservations about the Seal which have been raised on safeguarding grounds and in particular the concern that, because of the discipline of the Seal, safeguarding disclosures might go unreported. This pilot springs from a strong belief that the Confessional is a healthy and precious expression of the Christian life but one which requires careful, thorough training and an additional layer of authorisation.
The Common Worship theological introduction and resources are available here
The Bishop’s Advisor overseeing training for this ministry is the Revd Canon Robert Norbury.
This page includes:
• A register of priests who have undertaken the training session and satisfactorily completed the follow-up work, demonstrating that they understand the theology and good practice that is required.
• A Penitent’s Charter to ensure that those who seek the use of this ministry understand the responsibilities it places on priest and penitent alike.
• A leaflet on suitable forms of penance given by the priest for the penitent to do as a response to be absolved of their sins (coming soon).