Christianity 102Congregation Benim Avraham

Diocese of La Porte, TexasChristian Church, Synod of St.

Timothy

Part 5

Confession

Biblical Warrant

Confess your sins one to another, and pray for one another, so that

you are healed. (James 5:16)

Confession

• The normal minister of penance is a presbyter.

• Recommended twice per year (Just before Advent and Lent)

• More often if a person has besetting sins.

• No-one is forced to go to confession.

During confession

• The penitent confessed their sins to the presbyter or bishop.

• The clergyman assigns a penance.

• He lays his stole over the penitents head and pronounces absolution (shrives).

Penance

• Is not a punishment

• Should be designed to reconcile the penitent with God, humankind, and nature.

• In many instances is restitution.

• Has a set time limit.

Anachamra

• A soul friend

• Confess sins one to another

• Assign penance

• Not the sacrament of confession

• A powerful way to help us grow in Christ.