Confession & Forgiveness - the Rite of Reconciliation in The Episcopal Church

There's an old adage Episcopalians use when it comes to Confession (The Rite of Reconciliation): "All may, none must, some should." This is generally the stance The Episcopal Church takes towards Confession. It is not a prerequisite for Holy Communion, so no one has to go. It is available to everyone, all year long, and also during special times set aside in Advent and Lent. And finally, for those whose hearts are burdened heavily by sin or guilt, it is recommended to go to Confession.

It has been my experience that while I know God loves me and forgives me, the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) has been the thing God has used to help me overcome sin and experience God's love time and again. It's a great gift to know that Confession is a Sacrament, in which Christ is truly present, offering forgiveness through the words and presence of the priest.

So as you prepare for Christmas, seek God in your heart and see whether you might not benefit from meeting Christ in a unique way in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

​-Fr Alex