Pope Francis gave blunt advice to nearly 900 priests and seminarians preparing to be confessors. His audience with participants of the 31st annual course on the internal forum, organized by the Apostolic Penitentiary, took place in the Paul VI hall and online.
POPE FRANCIS
Dear brothers, let us always remember that each one of us is a sinner who has been forgiven. If any one of us does not feel this way, it’s better that he not hear confessions. It’s better if he does not become a confessor.
The pope clarified that being merciful doesn’t mean turning a blind eye, but he also said that when hearing confessions, a priest should not linger unnecessarily on penitents’ sins.
POPE FRANCIS
Don’t ask indiscreet questions. I’ve learned a very important lesson from Card. Piacenza. He told me that when he sees that a person is struggling to confess a particular sin, but he understands what it is, he tells them, ‘I understand. Let’s move on.’ Don’t cause them more pain. Don’t torture them.
The pope reiterated that the sacrament of reconciliation is a continuous conversion that requires abandoning oneself to God’s love.
CT
