Fr. Mike Schmitz has advice for you. He points out that preparing for a good confession starts when we recognize that being a “good person” in our own eyes is not enough—we are called to holiness, which is something much greater.

Confession is by its very nature a secret rite. Sometimes, this leads to many misunderstandings and questions. Fr. Casey is here to clear up any questions you have.

Father John “Rob” Jack, who teaches systematic theology at the Athenaeum of Ohio/Mount St. Mary’s Seminary of the West, is well known for encouraging and hearing confession at every parish he travels to and in his many parish missions, recorded talks, and programs for Sacred Heart Radio. He shared the

by Hannah Brockhaus Vatican City, Mar 3, 2021 / 05:00 am MT (CNA).- Pope Francis’ prayer intention for the month of March is for a renewed experience of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In his video for the prayer intention, created by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, the pope asked for

by Mary Farrow Denver Newsroom, Jan 13, 2021 / 09:01 pm MT (CNA).- Three North Dakota state legislators introduced a bill this week that would oblige Catholic priests to violate the seal of confession in cases of confirmed or suspected child abuse, on penalty of imprisonment or heavy fines. The

by Jonah McKeown Vatican City, Mar 27, 2020 / 05:00 am (CNA).- Imagine that Michael, a practicing Catholic, committed a mortal sin yesterday. Normally, Michael would go to confession. But because of the coronavirus pandemic, he can’t. It simply isn’t available. What can Michael do? Despite some creative efforts by

Following up on his video about taking the Lord’s name in vain, Fr. Mike comments on whether swearing, as in using vulgar language, is a sin. He gives three times when using vulgar words can be sinful.

We often think the Sacrament of Reconciliation is a moment of our failure. In Today’s Video, Fr. Mike reveals the true grace of confession.

Q: What are common fears about going to Confession?  A: People fear revealing things about themselves that may look them look bad or appear less than “nice.” They want to keep the mask on without ever having to reveal the dark things in their heart. They also fear the stigma that

Q: My husband has not practiced the Catholic faith for 30 years. What does he need to do to return to the sacraments? A: Once baptized, a person is always a Christian. But as you note, it is possible to leave the practice of the faith for a time (or