Holy Confession in the Greek Orthodox Church
What is Holy Confession?
Holy Confession is a sacred Sacrament (Mystery) of the Orthodox Church in which we repent of our sins before God and receive His forgiveness through the priest, who acts as His witness. Through Confession, we renew our relationship with Christ, cleanse our souls, and receive spiritual guidance for our journey in faith.
As Christ Himself said:
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
Confession is a gift from God—an opportunity to turn away from sin and restore the grace that may have been diminished through our spiritual struggles.
Why Do We Need Confession?
Sin separates us from God, but through Confession, we return to Him with humility and sincerity. The Church teaches that:
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We all fall short of God’s perfection and need His mercy (Romans 3:23).
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Confession helps us heal spiritually and emotionally.
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We receive guidance from the priest to strengthen our faith and avoid sin in the future.
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Confession allows us to prepare our hearts for Holy Communion with a clear conscience.
The Role of the Priest in Confession
In Confession, the priest does not “forgive sins” himself—only God forgives sins. However, Christ gave His Apostles, and through them, the clergy, the authority to bind and loose sins (John 20:22-23). The priest serves as a spiritual father and guide, listening without judgment, offering counsel, and praying for your reconciliation with God.
Confession is not an interrogation—it is a spiritual conversation in which we openly and honestly express our struggles, sins, and need for God’s mercy.
Who Should Go to Confession?
Every Orthodox Christian is encouraged to go to Confession regularly. While there is no set frequency, many Christians confess:
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During Great Lent and before Pascha (Easter)
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Before major feasts such as Christmas and the Dormition of the Theotokos
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Before receiving Holy Communion, especially if one has committed serious sins
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Whenever they feel burdened by guilt or in need of spiritual guidance
Even if one has not committed serious sins, regular Confession strengthens the soul and deepens our relationship with Christ.
How to Prepare for Confession
Before coming to Confession, take time for self-examination and prayer. Some helpful ways to prepare include:
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Reflect on your life – Have I kept God’s commandments? Have I harmed others? Have I neglected my spiritual life?
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Use the Ten Commandments or the Beatitudes as a guide – Have I lived according to Christ’s teachings?
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Pray for humility and sincerity – Ask God to help you be honest and open in your confession.
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Write down what you wish to confess (if helpful) to remember everything.
The Confession Process
When you come to Holy Confession at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, the process is simple and prayerful:
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The priest prays for God’s mercy and guidance.
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You confess your sins honestly and with humility.
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The priest may offer spiritual counsel and encouragement.
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You make a commitment to turn away from sin and grow in faith.
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The priest prays the absolution prayer, asking God to forgive your sins.
Confession is completely private and confidential—the priest will never reveal anything shared during Confession.
After Confession: Living a Renewed Life
Confession is not just about listing sins—it is about committing to spiritual renewal. After Confession:
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Strive to resist temptation and avoid repeating past sins.
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Pray daily and read Holy Scripture to strengthen your faith.
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Attend Divine Liturgy and receive Holy Communion regularly.
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Practice forgiveness toward others, just as God forgives us.
As Christ said:
“Go, and sin no more.” (John 8:11)
Scheduling Holy Confession at St. George
Confession is available at St. George Greek Orthodox Church by appointment or during special times of the year (such as Great Lent).
To schedule Confession, please contact our parish priest.
If you have any questions about Confession or would like guidance on preparing, please reach out to our parish priest.