Catholics/The Confessional in 2009

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Expert: Sal - 1/28/2009


Question
An acquaintance of mine who was raised a Catholic informed me a couple of weeks ago that Catholics no longer observe the weekly (or any) confession.  Is this true?  And if so, when was this penance removed?

Answer
Dear Phyl:

Catholics stopped having to go to weekly confession after the Second Vatican council (1962-1965). The change was not immediate, however, but by the early 70's weekly Confession as an obligation had ceased.  Catholics are still obligated to go to Confession if they believe themselves to be in mortal sin. Catholics are also obligated to go to Confession at least once a year at Easter. This is known as the "Easter Obligation".

Thanks for the question,
Sal

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Sal

Expertise

I love the Catholic Church and her book, the Bible. I will try to answer your questions with an emphasis on God*s Word. I believe the Catholic Church is the Church established by Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world. I can answer questions pertaining to the biblical basis for Catholic beliefs. I can also explain the beliefs of Jehovah*s Witnesses, Mormons, and Seventh Day Adventists as related to Catholic doctrine.

Experience

I have studied the Catholic faith for twenty years. I have conducted adult education classes in the teachings of the Catholic Church. I have taught teenagers the Catholic faith. I have taught Bible Study.
   

Organizations
Knights of Columbus


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Southern Cross

Education/Credentials
College graduate

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