I haven't been to confession in about 15 years. I hated confession when I was younger because it was made out to be some scary thing. I've been thinking recently of going and this video really helped me to make up my mind to go. Thank you.
Go, imagine you have a drawer full of rubbish, used batteries, bits of string, that can opener that never quite worked. You keep meaning to get organised and clear out the junk but time goes on and you never do it. How good is it when you finally get round to it.l
I recently went after not going for 10 years! Try doing an examination of conscience, it will help you remember areas of your life where you need God to help you improve. There are some pdfs online which go into more detail than just the 10 commandments. I had been away from the faith for so long. I hadn't been to confession since I was about 12 years old - I stopped going for the same reason as you. I then pretty much became agnostic in my teens. But I have felt drawn back to the faith through prayer, reading the gospels and learning about the Church from Fr Casey and Fr Mike. After 6 months of deliberation I finally went to confession! It was incredibly healing, like being baptised again, and it has helped my prayer life so much. I will keep you in intentions, and let us know if you decide to go! :)
I just went to confession the other day, and as I was leaving a friar at the church was walking in. I said hi to him, we exchanged pleasantries, and I told him I'd just gone to confession. He said, "Then you should eat dessert today!" I said, "Even though it's Lent?" He said, "Especially because it's Lent!" That small exchange gave me a whole new frame of mind in how I approach the sacrament: It's truly a cause for celebration! Thanks for this helpful and informative video! I love your channel. God bless you.
You are so wise for your young age. Of course, you are ordained and highly educated but your insight into the feelings of, and empathy for, average Catholics and how they feel about Confession is truly a gift from God. Thank you.
@@tomasveras2175 Looks like you do not understand definition of the word "wise". Slick selling of a church doctrine not necessarily leads to salvation of anybody.
@@sureevennot3418 bro Catholicism is literally evil if it’s good why the hell revelation 18:4 talks about Vatican City. He calls himself father where Mathew 23:9 says call no one rabbi or father cuz Jesus is the father
@@Watermelon-dj8be Human tradition is more important than Jesus words - this is the Catholic doctrine, and Fr. Casey is a typical representant of Vatican organization. He is teaching as he was taught. More trust to organization than to the Bible. If this is wishful ignorance or premeditation I can't tell.
I have been a zealous Protestant my entire Christian life, which is about 35 years so far. However, I have been deeply troubled over the divisions of the church. Father Casey, you are a refreshing spring of clarity. You’ve vocalized some of my (and I believe, God’s sorrows). Thank you. May God bless you and your ministry.
While I am not Catholic, my in-laws are. I appreciate this channel so much as it's helping me understand where they are coming from regarding their religious faith. Thank you for the clear explanations, and God bless you in your ministry.
@@DarkAngel-cj6sx No, even Trent Horn could correct him on historicity of the Gospels, where he had pretended (Fr Casey, not Horn) that the memories of the disciples could have been distorted after decades. I think I have heard him defend the Theory of Evolution as well.
@@calvincoolidgesimp4380 Is your criterium on Catholic Teachings from Trent Session IV or from CCC § 283? If the former, you cannot back your claim about "not incompatible" and if the latter in preference over the former, I will not buy your claim to be Catholic. You are obviously free to reciprocate the sentiment.
I once went to confession where our priest directed us to sit before the Blessed Sacrament. It was a powerful reminder of who was actually listening and declaring to us, "Take heart, my child; your sins are forgiven."
There is nothing to compare to walking out of confession with your sins forgiven and feeling like you’re walking on air brimming over with joy and gratitude for our Lord So much that you can sing all the way home
Yeah it's to bad priest don't have any powers your waste your time .Pray to jesus read your Bible don't follow catholic priest there not jesus or his apostles .this guy will be thrown into hell for call himself father and he's not an apostle and has 0 power to heal or forgive anyone
@@a-visible.change.6718 Just know it's okay to be scared, but don't let that hold you back. We go to confession to be healed- it's a healing sacrament. Something that's helping me build up confidence to go is Mark 2:17 "On hearing this, Jesus said to them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." I like to think of this sacrament as like going to the doctors. Everyone is scared, but you go to get better. And I've been reassured that I will feel so much better after going. I can't wait to get my sins off my chest! Hope this helps, God bless!
@@ronan8764 I remind myself of Christ's words in the private revelations to St. Theresa of Avila about his Sacred Heart. Christ says that His Heart burns with mercy and is arduous in His desire to be spent forgiving sinners. Christ also said that what wounds his heart The most is not our sins, but refusal to trust in His Mercy! I ought to remind myself of this when I repeatedly fall into the same sins. I have not gone to confession as often as I should the past several years.
As someone who grew up Pentecostal, and has always been Protestant, I can tell you that while going directly to God with might be always available to you, there is definitely a bit of emptiness in doing so. I have often wished that I could go to confession, talk to a human about it, and most importantly hear audibly that I’ve been forgiven by God. While private contrition is good, there are true benefits to the sacrament of reconciliation. I had always been told that I had to trust God that my sins were forgiven, and I genuinely tried. The reality for me is that I have many days when my faith is weak, and I need to someone else tell me that God’s got my heart in his hands.
God knows your heart He loves a heart that turns to him You are forgiven of these sins that bother you God gave you repentance in your heart That’s all you need Believe and ask for help to turn from these sins You are forgiven Jesus died for the sins of mankind just believe in the cross of Jesus Christ our savior and you will be saved God knows us better than we do I pray the Holy Spirit will reveal the love Jesus has for you In Jesus name and for his glory God bless you
It is as you say. It is priceless. The counseling is so helpful. A few times I've even been told, "That's not a sin". What a relief! And I've been told to not be so hard on myself, reminded that past sins that were confessed before were forgiven, to let them go [stop torturing myself]. Why not go to Catholic church near you and attend RCIA/OCIA classes. They started a few weeks ago, but you could probably still get in. They go until Easter. Find out what we're about. No pressure, no commitment unless you want to join at Easter. You can go to all the classes and walk away if you want or postpone it. Most find what they've been looking for, sometimes all their lives, instead. The only thing you have to invest is your time and and open heart. God Bless you.
I feel great respect for priests when I think about the burden of our sins they must bear. It must be very difficult for your mental health to listen to all these things and keep it within yourself not being able to do anything about it directly. For this I am very grateful and I want to thank you. Also, it may sound banal, but God has to help priests carry this burden, an ordinary person would not be able to live with it alone :)
“ not being able to do anything about it directly” , they administer your penance and grant u absolution on behalf of God so that is more than any one of my laymen friends and family can do . But yeah, always have to pray for our priests. I’m worried of scandalizing them
@@kb-tn8ku Of course, but I meant that the seal of confession does not allow the priests to take any actions outside the confessional. They hear that someone is beating their children or killed someone and they cannot report it, all they can do is trying to guide these people. That's what I meant by direct actions and it must be extremely heartbreaking for priests.
Perfect timing as I'm about to go for my first confession in preparation for Easter Sunday when I'm getting confirmed! Last year during quarantine lock down God touched my heart and lead me to the understanding and acceptance of the Catholic church and this time last year I didn't think I'd ever be in this situation.
Jesus Christ is God incarnate who came to earth to be born and live a perfect life, a sinless life. (He is one person of the Trinity, consisting of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; one God in three persons not three Gods.) Jesus then gave Himself up to be crucified and died to pay for the sins of the whole world. My sin, your sin, the sins of everybody. 3 days later He was resurrected. He now offers salvation to all who will turn from their sin and trust Him to save them from eternity in hell. He paid our debts because we couldn't, but we have to trust Him to do it. I cannot add anything to what He has done (not even baptism). I cannot do enough good to take even a year off of my death sentence in hell. The sentence is a never ending one, because I have sinned against an eternal God. But Jesus took my punishment, He saved me, and offers that same salvation to you. I am praying for you.
Congratulations and God bless you! It's old terminology but I pray that through all your life ahead, you are a soldier for Christ in this troubled world.
Due to the pandemic our confessional can't be used. We have been confessing in the parking lot, face to face. Fr sits in his car, and people park next to his window, each car pointed in opposite directions. I'm terrified of pulling up too close to his car and hit it by accident😅. So I've walked instead of driving, to confession 😅. It's funny and sort of humbling at same time. Every driver in line sees this old lady standing by Fr Jay's car😂😂. I love it though, because I can look at the sky after my absolution, lift my hand up high and say THANK YOU JESUS FOR LOVING ME! PRAISE TO YOU LORD JESUS CHRIST! ** drivers behind me probably think I'm weird😅, they are right, I am 😊**
You’re right about assigning a creative penance rather than a traditional “Our Father” or “Hail Mary”. The last penance I was given was the first one I got that actually addressed sins I was struggling with. One of the penances was such a struggle for me to complete, but I’m so glad because without struggle... I don’t think I would be able to grow. The penance pushed me out of my comfort zone to do something that I would have never done on my own. I am better off because of it!
If you don't mind what was your penance? If it gives away a sin you're ashamed of don't feel obligated to tell I'm very curious I didn't know priests would give penance that cause struggle.
@@olyviakiley5646 Basically, the penance I struggled with was to give this certain family member a phone call to chat a while, and tell them I love them/care about them. It was difficult because I barely speak on the phone (gen z here lol) and I also didn't want my call to feel awkward or too "out of the blue" to this family member. I'm glad I did it though because I'm sure it made their day, and it also helped me to view this person in a more positive light since then. I want to say the relationship between us has even improved now since that phone call because they will reach out to me occasionally to say something nice. The second penance I was assigned (wasn't too hard) was a prayer from the Bible. I find it very helpful to open up my Bible and recite that same prayer whenever I need extra encouragement or strength. If you ever think a penance is too difficult for you, I believe you can always ask the priest to modify it in some way. But usually a bit of struggle ( I have found) is very helpful.
My pastor always gives the most creative penances based on the counsel he gives. One of the ones that I was assigned was to go outside for about a 10 minute walk without having my phone. That was truly an awesome one for sure.
I remember this period of my life when I used to go to confession every week to confess the same sin. There was this particular thing I kept confessing over and over because the guilt never left me. Then one day the priest told me I don't need to confess that sin again. I was like errrmm you are supposed to not remember me and my sins 😂 well that became a counselling session and after mush talking I was finally able to let go of that guilt and believe in God's mercy.
Just a little note, you do have the right to still confess the same sin if you commit it again, and you have to confess if it was grave. But don't worry! When you confess, your strength doesn't come from yourself, it comes from Jesus, truly divine and truly human. It's no longer you who live, but He who lives in you! Pray, hope, and don't worry. Trust, humility, and the resolve to change through God's love are the most important :)
I had no idea that we didn’t have to confess the same sin again. I do the same. Every week at confession, I confess the same sin. I was under the impression that I had to confess all the sins I made for that week.
@@LB-ku6ry you do. This is not a good channel to follow for the proper forms and practices for the sacraments. I would recommend Sensus Fidelilum. God Bless.
@@JamesEarlRayMLK Thank you for letting me know that. I just started watching this channel because he is a Catholic priest, but something did feel different. I’m glad that you let me know this. God bless you too.
I'm not Catholic. But, if I ever DID have to go to confession, I'd probably have to pack a lunch and the priests might be rolling dice to see who'd be lucky enough to hear it. I find your videos enlightening and enjoyable. Thanks for making faith an approachable journey.
I think you helped thousands of souls to return to this sacrament soon.that was so important and so encouraging to all. God is close to you Father Casey.
Growing up, i learned to embrace face-to-face confession as I learned to embrace how deeply deceptive I had learned to be in all my relationships. Having turned the corner and accepted the reality of me, I now WANT to be known. I find comfort in the fact that, even behind a screen post-Covid, the priest still knows it's me! I no longer feel the "benefit" of pretending like i'm hiding from my sins in any way.
I've never confessed in front of a screen, the opportunity has never been there. I agree with your points about face to face confession. We confess face-to-face to strangers all the time without any assurance of absolution, confession shouldn't be much harder!
@@emiliawisniewski3947 in the institution of confessing to a human person by way of the priest, The Lord gave us an opportunity for a truly cathartic freeing of ourselves from guilt by surrendering our fears to a person we have to trust and are unable to control. There is HUGE benefit in embracing that level of surrender even before we look at the grace and blessings God bestows upon us innthe sacrament of reconcilliation!
Jesus Christ is God incarnate who came to earth to be born and live a perfect life, a sinless life. (He is one person of the Trinity, consisting of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; one God in three persons not three Gods.) Jesus then gave Himself up to be crucified and died to pay for the sins of the whole world. My sin, your sin, the sins of everybody. 3 days later He was resurrected. He now offers salvation to all who will turn from their sin and trust Him to save them from eternity in hell. He paid our debts because we couldn't, but we have to trust Him to do it. I cannot add anything to what He has done (not even baptism). I cannot do enough good to take even a year off of my death sentence in hell. The sentence is a never ending one, because I have sinned against an eternal God. But Jesus took my punishment, He saved me, and offers that same salvation to you. I am praying for you.
I remember when I went to confession last month. I was absolved, and haven't committed the same sin since. It really is a sacrament of healing. I'm so grateful.
Thank you Father for this video. I haven't been to confession for over 5 years. I am inconvenienced by having one leg. My priest used to come by every First Friday to hear confessions of the homebound.. He'd come, and never once ask if I wish to make my confession. He has since been assigned to another parish. The present priest I have never met. I am not able to go to church like I'd like, but do watch the Mass online from Madison, Wisconsin every Sunday. I do say the act of contrition when I feel the need to. Living by myself and being 81, my sins aren't numerous. Thanks, again for this video. May Almighty God richly bless you and all of the marvelous priests who are doing God's work, here on His third rock from the Sun.
@Bunta Fujiwara No I haven't. The chair of the Ladies of Charity does communicate with me and I assume they communicate with Father. But since you asked I'll get in touch with Ms. Clark and see what gives.
Ekdujhek...... Did you know St Patrick was never officially canonized by a pope in the Catholic church, therefore shouldn't officially be labelled as a Saint. Food for thought🤔
@@MichaelThompson-jq3zf He is a Saint canonised by pre-congregation and recognised by the Church as a Saint. As are all the Apostles and early Martyrs and christians for approximately the first 1000 years of christianity.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for what you do. You have brought me hope and belief that I had thought I had lost. With more and more people not believing in God I felt as if I was getting sucked into that belief and there was nothing I could do about it. I was constantly stressed and always felt like I had a weight on my chest but then I found you and your videos that helped me rediscover God in a sense and there is honestly nothing I could say to express how much you have changed my life.
This is the hardest part of me being a Catholic for my Mom... She really doesn't understand why I have to go to confession. And she always brings up Matthew 27:51 about the temple curtain being torn from the top to the bottom, and how that means we don't need to confess our sins to a priest. And I've tried to explain it to her but to no avail... This video Father may finally get her to understand. Thank you.
I'm not a Catholic but I really enjoyed learning about this. I don't see any conflict with what I believe now. This Friar seems like a very spiritual man. I would feel comfortable confessing my sins to him and search him out for guidance.
The Sacrament of Confession has made me feel so bad about my sins, and I attest this to the Holy Spirit working in my soul and increasing the sensitivity of my conscience. I see it as a blessing, even though it’s a painful one.
I am in RCIA and preparing to enter the church at the Easter vigil. The Reverend Father teaching the classes recommended scheduling time with him or another priest at the parish to hear our first confession before then so we may receive the Eucharist, or even to go anonymously during the church’s normal confession times. He recommended scheduling, though, so neither the priest hearing the first confession nor ourselves in giving our first confession feels rushed through. This helps me a lot, as my first confession is scheduled for Monday. I was very nervous - still kind of am, since I am afraid I’ll miss my “lines”. But knowing that confessions are generally forgotten unless they’re super bad makes me feel better lol. Thank you for this video
I was born catholic and i always tried to have "a set of lines" prepared, or to justify my actions, something that helped me a lot was a priest that said "Trust me, we don't remember you, if you're not looking for counseling, just come over, and be short on what are your sins, don't try to run it all over your head and practice it, just let it go", and literally, everytime I go to confession, it's just like i vomit everything and feel such a deep peace and happiness. Ps: welcome home!
What's so awesome about confession is that it literally burns the sin away forever, it's up to us if we want it to grow again in the garden of our souls. But Jesus is so good he burns the sin away and cleanses you so that you won't do it again! i love this sacrament so much! the more we confess the more we become like children!
I liked how you were able to explain complicated things in a very easy to understand, short, and comprehensive video. It answered a lot of uncertainties and I feel a lot less anxious now about the sacrament. Thank you.
Thank you so much fr Patrick. I have religious ocd in the form of horrible, insulting,obscene name calls towards our Lady especially in adoration or holy mass, or when I pray my rosary with I do daily. I am in recovery from a lifetime of drug addiction 33 years of heroin and crackcocain and when I've experienced relapses my head, mind gets bombarded with unwanted intrusive thoughts it's heartbreaking and emotionally draining. I have experienced that some priests don't recognize what I am suffering but I felt very relieved and reassured with your videos so thank you so much. 💖
I am a Christian, raised nondenominational, but in a catholic area and with catholic family. I’ve been considering joining the church because I miss the community and love the thought and tradition the Catholic Church bro s. Thank you for these videos. They have helped me understand the faith more fully, and to be more comfortable making this decision.
Patrick Nugroho Hadiwinoto My fiance would love it if I converted, though he’s just happy I’m a pretty active Christian, in a way. We pray together a lot and discuss the Saints (an interest of mine years before I met him) and discuss a lot of religious topics. And there’s a lot of beauty to Catholicism. The issue is that there are just a few things I can’t really... I mean, I don’t believe that. And while I never found a denomination Protestant side that lines up with exactly what I think, it’s not as big of a deal in Protestantism if you differ on a few things. It seems so... letter of the law. I can get behind so my of it, but like three things bug me, and it keeps me from thinking it’s an option. I want to fully support him in HIS walk with God, and in his attempt to pray more this Lent, I’ve been prompting him when I can, and we’ll pray together at times we would probably just go watch tv. I’m going to go to mass with him when it’s safe to do so. I’m going to raise any kids knowing the catholic faith and fully able to take part in it. But I just... I don’t know if it’s what I was raised that’s blocking me or if I’m not divinely inspired to understand God and His word that way, or what. I found out that a huge ton of actual born and raised Catholics don’t actually really believe the letter of the law on these things either. But if I have to say it’s what I believe, and lie, there is just... no way it can work! I hope he’ll understand that it’s not a decision I’m making lightly, but that I can’t be true to God if I’m lying, to make things easier or more convenient.
Father, this opened my eyes greatly and makes me very happy. Now that I understand some of the difficulties you must go through I will pray for you. Thank you.
Fr.Casy, Your videos are the best. Being able to go to confession helps me. I've learned we need the grace that comes from confession to a priest. It's not easy, but so worth while. It's our treasure as a sacrament.
For anyone who didn't know what the good Fr. meant by scrupulosity, scrupulosity is a type of religious OCD which is becoming more and more common. For those who have never experienced this themselves, imagine a dose of “Catholic guilt” on steroids. It’s more than having a guilty conscience; it’s having a crippling conscience. A person who is suffering from scrupulosity becomes obsessed with their most insignificant weaknesses and sins, so much so that it becomes their primary preoccupation. With this mindset comes an intense fear of failing God, which results in the inability to make even minute decisions. More than anything, these persons desire to please God and follow His commandments, yet they remain convinced of their constant failure. Because of this, it’s hard - almost impossible - to have a loving, personal relationship with God. Prayer and the sacraments put them face-to-face with anxiety and despair. ----anyway, I needed to look it up.
Way back in the 1950's during our one hour religion class every day at the Catholic school, the priest told us there are 6 forms of consciences. And one of them was scrupulosity. I can't name the rest now . . . to many years have gone by. But we all have a slightly different conscience. You have to get to know it!
In my experience, scrupulosity is a kind of Pop - religiousness. It isn't genuine and is usually found where there is a lack of giving real time to God in prayer. Its a form of self-justification. You're trying to prove to God that you're potentially Holy - that you are worthy. But the real issue as St. Faustina's journey shows is Trust. Trust is only possible when you spend time with God, just like your trust of someone is limited if you don't spend alot of time with them. The more time you spend with God - with Jesus, the more you realize how much he loves you - and yes, he did and still does prove it.
Whoa - just needed to add, it’s actually MUCH more a form of OCD and anxiety. Like needing to wash your hands or touch the light switch. Mental health treatment is the way out. It’s not really even a moral issue.
I am catholic .I love my catholic church very much .catholic church is the treasure of Island .I am proud of my church .In my child hood I did not understsnd but now it is very clear ..the beauty of catholic church is really great . We have mother mary ,saints sacraments and many many things .
I will make my first true confession next week. (Before confirmation, i was too scared as a child to confess sins because i thought i would get in trouble, so i technically never confessed a single sin). Looking forward to do it! Thank you.
I have watched many of your short clips. I love them all. You make it interesting and easy to understand and remember. Please keep doing what you are doing. I'm a 21 yr deacon in Alabama who appreciates you very much.
This is the best thing to happen to a sinner...Where one can find the amazing love of Jesus. The Devil's envy. Sure he'll try to device against. Praise be to Jesus who always wants us back... And I love to go to him.
Great video Fr. Casey. Due to our lockdown here in Ireland I am unable to go to confession. I hope that when we open up again I'll be able to return. Pax!
Thank you for really practical answers to burning questions on confession. Great visual aids with unobtrusive music and summary slides which focus on the main points. Well done Father Casey. Give yourself a gold star for this one.
Well Fr. Casey you're doing good work. You make the presence of Jesus a thing that people can understand and relate to, and I don't consider myself in any way a holy person or someone who imitates Christ, but you have brought the odd tear to my eye and made me think about how I ought to be living.
Hi Fr. Casey. I left the sacrament of penance since 8 years. But after watching this video. I was forced to go and I think I made a good confession. I now watch your videos every day. How I wish you are close to my state, I would have been attending your parish. Good job Fr. Keep up the good work.
I think that the Jesuit examen taught by St. Ignatius Loyola is really helpful. I have also felt that the secrecy in the confessional is often a gift of the Holy Spirit.
Thank you Fr. Casey...I am thoroughly enjoying your videos and they constantly help me move closer to living the life we all desire in God. Finding a new bit of knowledge about our faith each day is truly a blessing and I hope we can enjoy your content for years to come.
Paz e bene padre! I had watched some of your videos and I can say they're great! Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam! Greetings from Poland! 💪 Have a extremely blessed day!
I'm still confessing sins I committed years ago and forgot about, or didn't realize at the time that they were grave matter. I know they aren't mortal since I wasn't aware that they were, but I figure it's my guardian angel prompting me to go ahead and bring them to Jesus.
Some of my best confessions have been raking leaves or in a living room. My best confessors are the ones who know me as a person so he can help me to be more honest with myself.
@@Laura-ip8nw These were sacramental confessions. When we saw where our discussion was going, one of us, usually me, would ask if he would hear my confession. While the situation has informal, the sacrament was real and the penance was far more meaningful and transformational than "Say one Our Father and three Hail Mary's."
@@old-moose - That makes sense. But . . . my own very best confession to God is usually when I'm on the farm driving the tractor for hours at a time going in rectangles around the field. I have great remorse and 'discuss it' with Him in great detail.
The last time I went to confession, the priest started yelling; it was so embarassing, that I quickly left, and all the people waiting in line moved over to another priest. who needs that guilt?
If you want to confess your love to your wife, do you need to do it through a priest? And if you want to confess your love to God through confession and prayer, you also have to do it only through a priest in a temple built by human hands? Of course not. Why? Because he wants us in our hearts in the temple of our body, there he wants to be adored, there he wants to speak and be loved because "God is Spirit." Confession and prayer are confessions of love. God's mercy is praised. Therefore, do not be afraid to confess and pray. “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. John 4;23 „Once, when a certain doubt rose within me shortly before Holy Communion, (56) the Seraph with the Lord Jesus stood before me again. I asked the Lord Jesus, and not receiving an answer, I said to the seraph, “Could you perhaps hear my confession?” And he answered me, “No spirit in heaven has that power.” And that moment, the Sacred host rested on my lips”. Diary of Saint Faustina 1677
don't be afraid to confess in spirit Trust in him, all ye congregation of people: pour out your hearts before him. God is our helper for ever. (Psalm 62, 9) Do not follow them. (Luke 21; 8)
What a great, easy to understand explanation of probably the most misunderstood of all the sacraments. Father Casey...you have a marvelous gift for communicating.
Scrupulousity.. I had never heard of this term before today, thank you. It's something I've struggled with my whole life, I thought I was just defunct or paranoid. Thank you for all that you do :)
Fr. Casey thank you for clarifying the aspect of not hearing confession to people close to a Priest. I have a good friend that is a Priest and he told me that but didn't explain to me why, and I had had that hurt in me, you didn't hear my confession but this video has just helped me to understand that. Thank you and Happy St. Patrick's Day
Thanks man. I just became Catholic from protestant last week. I've been feeling a yearning to go to confession though I don't know whether I've committed anything more than veanial sin. I've found this really helpful. =)
I worry that I don't feel enough guilt over my sins. My conscious is weak, and doesn't make me feel guilty enough. I am terrified of sin, but it seems like I'm predisposed to sin, if that makes any sense
Three recommendations: search the term “concupiscence”, prayer before reading Romans 7, discussing your situation with local parish Priest. Not necessarily in that order. May your Lenten season be fruitful.💜🍇
Do not be troubled! Christ came precisely for the weakest and numbest of sinners like us. It is God's strength that you rely on when you go to confession in His love.
God loves the people who keep messing up and legitimately trying. For some people it’s not as hard, and in a way, their walk with God may be a bit easier. Or maybe it’s just one area of their life that’s a huge problem and once they get that under control, the waters of their soul run more placidly. But I think there’s beauty in frailty, in trying and searching and hoping and praying that you can make it through and do the right thing. Growth and empathy are linked. In suffering, you may be a more perfect instrument of God’s love, by being able to understand and SEE someone else’s suffering, ease THEIR burden, and clear THEIR way. Your weakness could become a strength. Just keep your feet on the path and extend yourself the same kindness as you’d do others. Do not expect yourself to be infallible. Forgive yourself and remember what you learned next time you meet the hurdle. I say all of this because... I’m doing all of this. It’s a struggle, but, I don’t think we can expect to get to Heaven on a feather bed. 😅 Be well, Robert. 💞
Id really like a little feed back on this from a sheep who has walked off the path from time to time.and has denned with wolves.and feels very ashamed of it.i little creptic but we all get what I'm asking.God Bless.
So, I've been watching this channel for a while (also: Upon Friar Review) I'm not Catholic, but this is one thing that frustrates me in the protestant church (speaking as a protestant, though at this point I'm just barely short of turning to East Orthodox) Personal struggles and frustrations aside, while I do believe that salvation is by faith alone (which I honestly question at times) I yearn for the sacrament of confession in the protestant church because not having it feels like carrying around a bag full of bricks, and while there's a finite number of dividing issues that are still keeping me from turning to East Orthodox (and slightly more preventing me from accepting Catholicism) This is needed, I don't know that repeatedly going to confession after each sin is needed for salvation, but it is for sanctification, and not having it is legitimate torture to the conscience... So, in short, asking my favorite group of Catholic brothers in Christ (if you recognize a protestant as such, or even if you don't for that matter), please pray for me.
Prayers. And you only need to confess Mortal, not Venial sins. So you don't need to got to Confession after each sin. If that were true, I'd never leave the confessional!
@Casey. I believe that the Holy Spirit is guiding you.. You're already on a spiritual journey to finding yourself home with Catholic faith. Praying for you. Will be glad to welcome you home.
So glad I stumbled upon your channel. It's fun and informative. Would be great if you could do a segment on the dissection of the physical church, like the apse, the nave, etc as it has changed from its humble beginnings until now. Also could do a list of specific catholic terms, rites and how they've evolved through history. I enjoy watching you. Great way to being your ministry to the 21st century.
I love confession on the fact that I know my Lord is there, seeing and listening to me. It kills me as I read the Act of Contrition how we hurt Him when we sin, yet He loves us still. Confession is humbling myself to know I messed up, again, and need God' forgiveness. And it is beautiful when absolution is given.
First, a disclaimer, I am an agnostic. But I really enjoy the joy, love and wisdom you spread. And I respect how you respectfully offers challenges and opportunity for reflection for catholic, Christians, relegius people and also non-religious. With that said, I would like to start a discussion. I think that there are some major similarities between confession and "modern" therapy. Both in form of the session itself but also in the extreme importance of not telling or using the "information" given. I would therefor like to propose some loose points for discussion, not ordered in importance, but to simplify referencing, so feel free to discuss all or just one or some of them: 1. Is there any resemblance between confession and modern therapy at all? 2. Do you think that that modern therapy could be helpful in improving oneself? 3. Could modern therapy be considered "heretical" as it tries to give the "earthly benefits" of confession without the notion of preparing oneself to "enter the Kingdom of God"? (please forgive my extremely simplified explanation of the purpose of confession) 4. Could modern therapy learn from the experience and history of confessions in a positive way for both religious and non-religious people without being religious? 5. Could priests learn from "modern and scientific" psychology to improve how they help people in their confessions? I would like to ask that the discussion is kept civil and respectful of participants point of view while still being acceptable of hard questions
That's a popular misunderstanding. Confession is no therapy, and shouldn't be - and therapy is not Confession, and shouldn't be. There is an overlap, because there's honesty, secrecy and help, but that's all. Confession is done to obtain absolution of sins. Therapy is to help live a more healthy life. In many cases they will contradict each other, because the priest will encourage you to feel sorry for your sins, while a therapist will try to persuade you that it's not your fault.
Fr Casey Thank you for acknowledging that scrupulosity in a mental health disorder and needs professional help. As a person with OCD I have many friends that have struggled with scrupulosity and it has caused them so much pain. I have been lucky to avoid that type of obsession but I know that if I every stat to get too tied up in my guilt to take a step back, go to confession and talk to my therapist.
Good to hear you talk about scrupulosity in the confessional, Father. Your answer reflects some of the core points made by St Alphonsus Liguori (the founder of my Congregation) who is a good authority on the subject. Keep up the good work!
I would understand if you wouldn't want to, but making a video about the Vatican memo about LGBT people would be really informative. I, personally, do not agree with the stance Rome has taken, but I think explaining it would be beneficial to a lot of people. Thanks, Fr Casey.
The Vatican didn't take any personal opinion regarding LGBTQ issues. The Vatican only wanted to state that they want people like this to come back to church and the Sacraments. There's a lot of people who have families that have been hurt by the church. This needs to be a safe place. I am a straight woman with a background in psychology. But I have been ordered not to counsel or teach regarding these issues for people. It could hurt the soul. Just go to church. Talk to a priest. Know that you are Loved ❤️ by a Good God.
@@dawnlapka2433 Well I don't know if we're talking about the same Vatican statement, but I think it would have helped if they'd not said "We don't bless sin". That was very insensitive. Who would want to go back to the Church, after hearing or reading that? I sure as heck wouldn't.
Confession was traumatizing for me when I was a kid. Going into a dark room and tell some unknown man behind a curtain my darkest secrets. That was about as scary as it gets when I was 8 years old.
Hi Elise, I just prayed for you. The more you do it, the easier it gets :) If it helps I made a confession with my parish priest behind a screen who could still see my reflection in the window and knew who I was...I confessed some very serious and grave sins. The next time I returned to confession (months later) I repeated something he told me during my last confession and he said, oh really? I don't remember but that sounds like something I'd say :) God is good.
@@williamswenson3970 went this weekend! Anxiety till right before, but it all fell off once I told the priest my first sin. Started with the heaviest one, and broke down in tears. It feels so good right now. I confessed to the rector of the seminary, since I knew the other two priests, but he understood me and made me feel heard. I'm planning on going again in a few weeks
@@elisejanssen4308 Praise Christ! That is amazing, I am so happy to hear that!!!!! More frequent confession gets easier once the first one is out of the way! :) God bless!
I haven't been to confession in about 15 years. I hated confession when I was younger because it was made out to be some scary thing. I've been thinking recently of going and this video really helped me to make up my mind to go. Thank you.
Go, imagine you have a drawer full of rubbish, used batteries, bits of string, that can opener that never quite worked. You keep meaning to get organised and clear out the junk but time goes on and you never do it. How good is it when you finally get round to it.l
God bless you!
You're going to feel amazing! Confession is a wonderful sacrament that shows us God' unfathomable and endless mercy in action. God love you!
I recently went after not going for 10 years! Try doing an examination of conscience, it will help you remember areas of your life where you need God to help you improve. There are some pdfs online which go into more detail than just the 10 commandments. I had been away from the faith for so long. I hadn't been to confession since I was about 12 years old - I stopped going for the same reason as you. I then pretty much became agnostic in my teens. But I have felt drawn back to the faith through prayer, reading the gospels and learning about the Church from Fr Casey and Fr Mike. After 6 months of deliberation I finally went to confession! It was incredibly healing, like being baptised again, and it has helped my prayer life so much. I will keep you in intentions, and let us know if you decide to go! :)
Put aside superstition and embrace reality.
I just went to confession the other day, and as I was leaving a friar at the church was walking in. I said hi to him, we exchanged pleasantries, and I told him I'd just gone to confession. He said, "Then you should eat dessert today!" I said, "Even though it's Lent?" He said, "Especially because it's Lent!"
That small exchange gave me a whole new frame of mind in how I approach the sacrament: It's truly a cause for celebration!
Thanks for this helpful and informative video! I love your channel. God bless you.
That’s beautiful! Thanks for sharing and God bless ❤️
That was a response I never would’ve expected and it clarifies so much thank you for posting
Mother Angelica used to say to go have an ice cream sundae! We should have a little celebration for being freed from our sins. 🎉😊
@@annarodriguez9868 Thanks for sharing this! I will have to adopt this habit :D
You encountered one false so called Priest.
You are so wise for your young age. Of course, you are ordained and highly educated but your insight into the feelings of, and empathy for, average Catholics and how they feel about Confession is truly a gift from God. Thank you.
I'm not finding anything 'wise' is in learning official doctrine of the organization and preaching forward to others.
@@sureevennot3418 preaching is the wise part, there is a way to do it and not be lame, and a way to do it great to save souls
@@tomasveras2175 Looks like you do not understand definition of the word "wise". Slick selling of a church doctrine not necessarily leads to salvation of anybody.
@@sureevennot3418 bro Catholicism is literally evil if it’s good why the hell revelation 18:4 talks about Vatican City. He calls himself father where Mathew 23:9 says call no one rabbi or father cuz Jesus is the father
@@Watermelon-dj8be Human tradition is more important than Jesus words - this is the Catholic doctrine, and Fr. Casey is a typical representant of Vatican organization. He is teaching as he was taught. More trust to organization than to the Bible. If this is wishful ignorance or premeditation I can't tell.
I have been a zealous Protestant my entire Christian life, which is about 35 years so far. However, I have been deeply troubled over the divisions of the church. Father Casey, you are a refreshing spring of clarity. You’ve vocalized some of my (and I believe, God’s sorrows). Thank you. May God bless you and your ministry.
While I am not Catholic, my in-laws are. I appreciate this channel so much as it's helping me understand where they are coming from regarding their religious faith. Thank you for the clear explanations, and God bless you in your ministry.
I don't think he is Catholic on all subjects, but on this one he is.
@@hglundahl he is a catholic priest and he is catholic on everything
@@DarkAngel-cj6sx No, even Trent Horn could correct him on historicity of the Gospels, where he had pretended (Fr Casey, not Horn) that the memories of the disciples could have been distorted after decades.
I think I have heard him defend the Theory of Evolution as well.
@@hglundahl the theory of evolution is not incompatible with Catholic teachings
@@calvincoolidgesimp4380 Is your criterium on Catholic Teachings from Trent Session IV or from CCC § 283?
If the former, you cannot back your claim about "not incompatible" and if the latter in preference over the former, I will not buy your claim to be Catholic. You are obviously free to reciprocate the sentiment.
I once went to confession where our priest directed us to sit before the Blessed Sacrament. It was a powerful reminder of who was actually listening and declaring to us, "Take heart, my child; your sins are forgiven."
You were not that false teachers child, no more than he was your father. This whole my child and Father whomever crap is annoying...
There is nothing to compare to walking out of confession with your sins forgiven and feeling like you’re walking on air brimming over with joy and gratitude for our Lord So much that you can sing all the way home
I just went to confession. and I feel 20 pounds lighter.
Yeah it's to bad priest don't have any powers your waste your time .Pray to jesus read your Bible don't follow catholic priest there not jesus or his apostles .this guy will be thrown into hell for call himself father and he's not an apostle and has 0 power to heal or forgive anyone
Hey i thought i was the only one
Literally smiling like a fool in the pew, truly at peace and happy 😁
I always feel bad, knowing I’ll soon undo it all - wash, rinse, repeat.
I'm making my first confession on Holy Saturday. I'm extremely nervous and excited, thanks for this video!
You will be blessed!!!🙏🙏
Very nice and a preemptive welcome home!
Im very scared I keep putting it off to make my first one. How did you make out so far & did you feel the holyghost present?
@@a-visible.change.6718 Just know it's okay to be scared, but don't let that hold you back. We go to confession to be healed- it's a healing sacrament. Something that's helping me build up confidence to go is Mark 2:17 "On hearing this, Jesus said to them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."
I like to think of this sacrament as like going to the doctors. Everyone is scared, but you go to get better. And I've been reassured that I will feel so much better after going. I can't wait to get my sins off my chest! Hope this helps, God bless!
@@ronan8764 I remind myself of Christ's words in the private revelations to St. Theresa of Avila about his Sacred Heart. Christ says that His Heart burns with mercy and is arduous in His desire to be spent forgiving sinners. Christ also said that what wounds his heart The most is not our sins, but refusal to trust in His Mercy! I ought to remind myself of this when I repeatedly fall into the same sins. I have not gone to confession as often as I should the past several years.
As someone who grew up Pentecostal, and has always been Protestant, I can tell you that while going directly to God with might be always available to you, there is definitely a bit of emptiness in doing so. I have often wished that I could go to confession, talk to a human about it, and most importantly hear audibly that I’ve been forgiven by God.
While private contrition is good, there are true benefits to the sacrament of reconciliation. I had always been told that I had to trust God that my sins were forgiven, and I genuinely tried. The reality for me is that I have many days when my faith is weak, and I need to someone else tell me that God’s got my heart in his hands.
Ask God to give illuminate you with the Holy Spirit. God bless you and Mama Mary💙❤️🙏
T
God knows your heart He loves a heart that turns to him You are forgiven of these sins that bother you God gave you repentance in your heart That’s all you need Believe and ask for help to turn from these sins You are forgiven Jesus died for the sins of mankind just believe in the cross of Jesus Christ our savior and you will be saved God knows us better than we do I pray the Holy Spirit will reveal the love Jesus has for you In Jesus name and for his glory God bless you
It is as you say. It is priceless. The counseling is so helpful. A few times I've even been told, "That's not a sin". What a relief! And I've been told to not be so hard on myself, reminded that past sins that were confessed before were forgiven, to let them go [stop torturing myself]. Why not go to Catholic church near you and attend RCIA/OCIA classes. They started a few weeks ago, but you could probably still get in. They go until Easter. Find out what we're about. No pressure, no commitment unless you want to join at Easter. You can go to all the classes and walk away if you want or postpone it. Most find what they've been looking for, sometimes all their lives, instead. The only thing you have to invest is your time and and open heart. God Bless you.
I feel great respect for priests when I think about the burden of our sins they must bear. It must be very difficult for your mental health to listen to all these things and keep it within yourself not being able to do anything about it directly. For this I am very grateful and I want to thank you. Also, it may sound banal, but God has to help priests carry this burden, an ordinary person would not be able to live with it alone :)
Patrycja, you have a very good, on-point observation.
May God continue blessing you with this kind of wisdom and understanding.
@@voxangeli9205 Thank you and God bless you too ❤️🙏
“ not being able to do anything about it directly” , they administer your penance and grant u absolution on behalf of God so that is more than any one of my laymen friends and family can do . But yeah, always have to pray for our priests. I’m worried of scandalizing them
@@kb-tn8ku Of course, but I meant that the seal of confession does not allow the priests to take any actions outside the confessional. They hear that someone is beating their children or killed someone and they cannot report it, all they can do is trying to guide these people. That's what I meant by direct actions and it must be extremely heartbreaking for priests.
Yes, we must pray arduously for them!
Perfect timing as I'm about to go for my first confession in preparation for Easter Sunday when I'm getting confirmed! Last year during quarantine lock down God touched my heart and lead me to the understanding and acceptance of the Catholic church and this time last year I didn't think I'd ever be in this situation.
SO happy for you!!
Congratulations, and may God bless you. It's not easy to be Catholic, but it's also rewarding, in other ways.
Fr Casey God bless you.
Jesus Christ is God incarnate who came to earth to be born and live a perfect life, a sinless life. (He is one person of the Trinity, consisting of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; one God in three persons not three Gods.) Jesus then gave Himself up to be crucified and died to pay for the sins of the whole world. My sin, your sin, the sins of everybody. 3 days later He was resurrected. He now offers salvation to all who will turn from their sin and trust Him to save them from eternity in hell. He paid our debts because we couldn't, but we have to trust Him to do it. I cannot add anything to what He has done (not even baptism). I cannot do enough good to take even a year off of my death sentence in hell. The sentence is a never ending one, because I have sinned against an eternal God. But Jesus took my punishment, He saved me, and offers that same salvation to you. I am praying for you.
Congratulations and God bless you! It's old terminology but I pray that through all your life ahead, you are a soldier for Christ in this troubled world.
Due to the pandemic our confessional can't be used. We have been confessing in the parking lot, face to face. Fr sits in his car, and people park next to his window, each car pointed in opposite directions. I'm terrified of pulling up too close to his car and hit it by accident😅. So I've walked instead of driving, to confession 😅. It's funny and sort of humbling at same time. Every driver in line sees this old lady standing by Fr Jay's car😂😂. I love it though, because I can look at the sky after my absolution, lift my hand up high and say THANK YOU JESUS FOR LOVING ME! PRAISE TO YOU LORD JESUS CHRIST! ** drivers behind me probably think I'm weird😅, they are right, I am 😊**
wow. this is the first I heard that of.
You’re right about assigning a creative penance rather than a traditional “Our Father” or “Hail Mary”. The last penance I was given was the first one I got that actually addressed sins I was struggling with. One of the penances was such a struggle for me to complete, but I’m so glad because without struggle... I don’t think I would be able to grow. The penance pushed me out of my comfort zone to do something that I would have never done on my own. I am better off because of it!
If you don't mind what was your penance? If it gives away a sin you're ashamed of don't feel obligated to tell I'm very curious I didn't know priests would give penance that cause struggle.
@@olyviakiley5646 Basically, the penance I struggled with was to give this certain family member a phone call to chat a while, and tell them I love them/care about them. It was difficult because I barely speak on the phone (gen z here lol) and I also didn't want my call to feel awkward or too "out of the blue" to this family member. I'm glad I did it though because I'm sure it made their day, and it also helped me to view this person in a more positive light since then. I want to say the relationship between us has even improved now since that phone call because they will reach out to me occasionally to say something nice. The second penance I was assigned (wasn't too hard) was a prayer from the Bible. I find it very helpful to open up my Bible and recite that same prayer whenever I need extra encouragement or strength.
If you ever think a penance is too difficult for you, I believe you can always ask the priest to modify it in some way. But usually a bit of struggle ( I have found) is very helpful.
My pastor always gives the most creative penances based on the counsel he gives. One of the ones that I was assigned was to go outside for about a 10 minute walk without having my phone. That was truly an awesome one for sure.
The perfect video during the season of Lent.
I remember this period of my life when I used to go to confession every week to confess the same sin. There was this particular thing I kept confessing over and over because the guilt never left me. Then one day the priest told me I don't need to confess that sin again. I was like errrmm you are supposed to not remember me and my sins 😂 well that became a counselling session and after mush talking I was finally able to let go of that guilt and believe in God's mercy.
He can't reveal sins to anyone else. Saying back to yourself, I think is ok. My opinion.
Just a little note, you do have the right to still confess the same sin if you commit it again, and you have to confess if it was grave. But don't worry! When you confess, your strength doesn't come from yourself, it comes from Jesus, truly divine and truly human. It's no longer you who live, but He who lives in you! Pray, hope, and don't worry. Trust, humility, and the resolve to change through God's love are the most important :)
I had no idea that we didn’t have to confess the same sin again. I do the same. Every week at confession, I confess the same sin. I was under the impression that I had to confess all the sins I made for that week.
@@LB-ku6ry you do. This is not a good channel to follow for the proper forms and practices for the sacraments. I would recommend Sensus Fidelilum. God Bless.
@@JamesEarlRayMLK Thank you for letting me know that. I just started watching this channel because he is a Catholic priest, but something did feel different. I’m glad that you let me know this. God bless you too.
I'm not Catholic. But, if I ever DID have to go to confession, I'd probably have to pack a lunch and the priests might be rolling dice to see who'd be lucky enough to hear it. I find your videos enlightening and enjoyable. Thanks for making faith an approachable journey.
I think you helped thousands of souls to return to this sacrament soon.that was so important and so encouraging to all.
God is close to you Father Casey.
Growing up, i learned to embrace face-to-face confession as I learned to embrace how deeply deceptive I had learned to be in all my relationships. Having turned the corner and accepted the reality of me, I now WANT to be known. I find comfort in the fact that, even behind a screen post-Covid, the priest still knows it's me! I no longer feel the "benefit" of pretending like i'm hiding from my sins in any way.
I've never confessed in front of a screen, the opportunity has never been there. I agree with your points about face to face confession. We confess face-to-face to strangers all the time without any assurance of absolution, confession shouldn't be much harder!
@@emiliawisniewski3947 in the institution of confessing to a human person by way of the priest, The Lord gave us an opportunity for a truly cathartic freeing of ourselves from guilt by surrendering our fears to a person we have to trust and are unable to control. There is HUGE benefit in embracing that level of surrender even before we look at the grace and blessings God bestows upon us innthe sacrament of reconcilliation!
@@jamestouchette859 - you don't technically confess to the priest, but sure, I agree with you point.
@@emiliawisniewski3947 yeah, thats a detail i tend to gloss over if i dont know im talking to a Catholic, but a valid point all the same :)
@@emiliawisniewski3947 sorry, a DEVOUT Catholic lol I know plenty of "Catholics" that dont get that
Thank you, Fr. Casey!
I always felt great coming out of Confession. And it's such a beautiful Sacrament.
True
Jesus Christ is God incarnate who came to earth to be born and live a perfect life, a sinless life. (He is one person of the Trinity, consisting of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; one God in three persons not three Gods.) Jesus then gave Himself up to be crucified and died to pay for the sins of the whole world. My sin, your sin, the sins of everybody. 3 days later He was resurrected. He now offers salvation to all who will turn from their sin and trust Him to save them from eternity in hell. He paid our debts because we couldn't, but we have to trust Him to do it. I cannot add anything to what He has done (not even baptism). I cannot do enough good to take even a year off of my death sentence in hell. The sentence is a never ending one, because I have sinned against an eternal God. But Jesus took my punishment, He saved me, and offers that same salvation to you. I am praying for you.
Me too
I remember when I went to confession last month.
I was absolved, and haven't committed the same sin since.
It really is a sacrament of healing.
I'm so grateful.
Thank you Father for this video. I haven't been to confession for over 5 years. I am inconvenienced by having one leg. My priest used to come by every First Friday to hear confessions of the homebound.. He'd come, and never once ask if I wish to make my confession. He has since been assigned to another parish. The present priest I have never met. I am not able to go to church like I'd like, but do watch the Mass online from Madison, Wisconsin every Sunday. I do say the act of contrition when I feel the need to. Living by myself and being 81, my sins aren't numerous. Thanks, again for this video. May Almighty God richly bless you and all of the marvelous priests who are doing God's work, here on His third rock from the Sun.
@Bunta Fujiwara No I haven't. The chair of the Ladies of Charity does communicate with me and I assume they communicate with Father. But since you asked I'll get in touch with Ms. Clark and see what gives.
Ekdujhek...... Did you know St Patrick was never officially canonized by a pope in the Catholic church, therefore shouldn't officially be labelled as a Saint. Food for thought🤔
@@MichaelThompson-jq3zf He is a Saint canonised by pre-congregation and recognised by the Church as a Saint. As are all the Apostles and early Martyrs and christians for approximately the first 1000 years of christianity.
I just wanted to say thank you so much for what you do. You have brought me hope and belief that I had thought I had lost. With more and more people not believing in God I felt as if I was getting sucked into that belief and there was nothing I could do about it. I was constantly stressed and always felt like I had a weight on my chest but then I found you and your videos that helped me rediscover God in a sense and there is honestly nothing I could say to express how much you have changed my life.
This is the hardest part of me being a Catholic for my Mom... She really doesn't understand why I have to go to confession. And she always brings up Matthew 27:51 about the temple curtain being torn from the top to the bottom, and how that means we don't need to confess our sins to a priest. And I've tried to explain it to her but to no avail... This video Father may finally get her to understand. Thank you.
I'm not a Catholic but I really enjoyed learning about this. I don't see any conflict with what I believe now. This Friar seems like a very spiritual man. I would feel comfortable confessing my sins to him and search him out for guidance.
Now that was one of the best lessons. On Catholic teaching . I have ever heard. I'm 61. THANK YOU.
Siempre al punto Fray Casey... este es un tema que atormenta a muchos católicos no practicantes. Gracias por ofrecer una guía...
The Sacrament of Confession has made me feel so bad about my sins, and I attest this to the Holy Spirit working in my soul and increasing the sensitivity of my conscience. I see it as a blessing, even though it’s a painful one.
I am in RCIA and preparing to enter the church at the Easter vigil. The Reverend Father teaching the classes recommended scheduling time with him or another priest at the parish to hear our first confession before then so we may receive the Eucharist, or even to go anonymously during the church’s normal confession times. He recommended scheduling, though, so neither the priest hearing the first confession nor ourselves in giving our first confession feels rushed through.
This helps me a lot, as my first confession is scheduled for Monday. I was very nervous - still kind of am, since I am afraid I’ll miss my “lines”. But knowing that confessions are generally forgotten unless they’re super bad makes me feel better lol. Thank you for this video
Welcome home!
@@BrightyAlbo thank you, glad to be here~
I was born catholic and i always tried to have "a set of lines" prepared, or to justify my actions, something that helped me a lot was a priest that said "Trust me, we don't remember you, if you're not looking for counseling, just come over, and be short on what are your sins, don't try to run it all over your head and practice it, just let it go", and literally, everytime I go to confession, it's just like i vomit everything and feel such a deep peace and happiness.
Ps: welcome home!
This is wonderful. My kids love your channel! Thank you for sharing.
Went to confession the first time on Saturday. I'm a convert and I loved it. I was nervous but it went great.
Thank you so much for this video Father. I am Christian, planning to join the Catholic Church and this was super helpful.
I'm Orthodox, this is good to hear coming from a western monk and priest. Very good !
What's so awesome about confession is that it literally burns the sin away forever, it's up to us if we want it to grow again in the garden of our souls. But Jesus is so good he burns the sin away and cleanses you so that you won't do it again! i love this sacrament so much! the more we confess the more we become like children!
I liked how you were able to explain complicated things in a very easy to understand, short, and comprehensive video. It answered a lot of uncertainties and I feel a lot less anxious now about the sacrament. Thank you.
Thank you so much fr Patrick. I have religious ocd in the form of horrible, insulting,obscene name calls towards our Lady especially in adoration or holy mass, or when I pray my rosary with I do daily. I am in recovery from a lifetime of drug addiction 33 years of heroin and crackcocain and when I've experienced relapses my head, mind gets bombarded with unwanted intrusive thoughts it's heartbreaking and emotionally draining. I have experienced that some priests don't recognize what I am suffering but I felt very relieved and reassured with your videos so thank you so much. 💖
I am a Christian, raised nondenominational, but in a catholic area and with catholic family. I’ve been considering joining the church because I miss the community and love the thought and tradition the Catholic Church bro s. Thank you for these videos. They have helped me understand the faith more fully, and to be more comfortable making this decision.
Patrick Nugroho Hadiwinoto My fiance would love it if I converted, though he’s just happy I’m a pretty active Christian, in a way. We pray together a lot and discuss the Saints (an interest of mine years before I met him) and discuss a lot of religious topics. And there’s a lot of beauty to Catholicism.
The issue is that there are just a few things I can’t really... I mean, I don’t believe that. And while I never found a denomination Protestant side that lines up with exactly what I think, it’s not as big of a deal in Protestantism if you differ on a few things. It seems so... letter of the law. I can get behind so my of it, but like three things bug me, and it keeps me from thinking it’s an option.
I want to fully support him in HIS walk with God, and in his attempt to pray more this Lent, I’ve been prompting him when I can, and we’ll pray together at times we would probably just go watch tv. I’m going to go to mass with him when it’s safe to do so. I’m going to raise any kids knowing the catholic faith and fully able to take part in it.
But I just... I don’t know if it’s what I was raised that’s blocking me or if I’m not divinely inspired to understand God and His word that way, or what. I found out that a huge ton of actual born and raised Catholics don’t actually really believe the letter of the law on these things either. But if I have to say it’s what I believe, and lie, there is just... no way it can work! I hope he’ll understand that it’s not a decision I’m making lightly, but that I can’t be true to God if I’m lying, to make things easier or more convenient.
Father, this opened my eyes greatly and makes me very happy. Now that I understand some of the difficulties you must go through I will pray for you. Thank you.
Just went to confession today. It was AMAZING!
Fr.Casy, Your videos are the best.
Being able to go to confession helps me.
I've learned we need the grace that comes from confession to a priest.
It's not easy, but so worth while.
It's our treasure as a sacrament.
For anyone who didn't know what the good Fr. meant by scrupulosity, scrupulosity is a type of religious OCD which is becoming more and more common. For those who have never experienced this themselves, imagine a dose of “Catholic guilt” on steroids. It’s more than having a guilty conscience; it’s having a crippling conscience. A person who is suffering from scrupulosity becomes obsessed with their most insignificant weaknesses and sins, so much so that it becomes their primary preoccupation.
With this mindset comes an intense fear of failing God, which results in the inability to make even minute decisions. More than anything, these persons desire to please God and follow His commandments, yet they remain convinced of their constant failure. Because of this, it’s hard - almost impossible - to have a loving, personal relationship with God. Prayer and the sacraments put them face-to-face with anxiety and despair. ----anyway, I needed to look it up.
Way back in the 1950's during our one hour religion class every day at the Catholic school, the priest told us there are 6 forms of consciences. And one of them was scrupulosity. I can't name the rest now . . . to many years have gone by. But we all have a slightly different conscience. You have to get to know it!
In my experience, scrupulosity is a kind of Pop - religiousness. It isn't genuine and is usually found where there is a lack of giving real time to God in prayer. Its a form of self-justification. You're trying to prove to God that you're potentially Holy - that you are worthy. But the real issue as St. Faustina's journey shows is Trust. Trust is only possible when you spend time with God, just like your trust of someone is limited if you don't spend alot of time with them. The more time you spend with God - with Jesus, the more you realize how much he loves you - and yes, he did and still does prove it.
Whoa - just needed to add, it’s actually MUCH more a form of OCD and anxiety. Like needing to wash your hands or touch the light switch. Mental health treatment is the way out. It’s not really even a moral issue.
I am catholic .I love my catholic church very much .catholic church is the treasure of Island .I am proud of my church .In my child hood I did not understsnd but now it is very clear ..the beauty of catholic church is really great . We have mother mary ,saints sacraments and many many things .
I will make my first true confession next week. (Before confirmation, i was too scared as a child to confess sins because i thought i would get in trouble, so i technically never confessed a single sin). Looking forward to do it! Thank you.
Thank you Fr.for this powerful topi through this Sacrament l experience the love and Marcy of God God bless you Fr.and praise the lord
Dear Father Casey! Thank you for this great video! God bless you!
I have watched many of your short clips. I love them all. You make it interesting and easy to understand and remember. Please keep doing what you are doing. I'm a 21 yr deacon in Alabama who appreciates you very much.
This is the best thing to happen to a sinner...Where one can find the amazing love of Jesus. The Devil's envy. Sure he'll try to device against. Praise be to Jesus who always wants us back... And I love to go to him.
Thank you so much for your videos! They’ve helped me SO much as I fell away from the Church and am dipping my toe back into the waters.
Great video Fr. Casey. Due to our lockdown here in Ireland I am unable to go to confession. I hope that when we open up again I'll be able to return. Pax!
You rock Fr. Casey! Your counsel is always wonderful and deepens my understanding of our faith.
Thank you for really practical answers to burning questions on confession. Great visual aids with unobtrusive music and summary slides which focus on the main points. Well done Father Casey. Give yourself a gold star for this one.
Well Fr. Casey you're doing good work. You make the presence of Jesus a thing that people can understand and relate to, and I don't consider myself in any way a holy person or someone who imitates Christ, but you have brought the odd tear to my eye and made me think about how I ought to be living.
This is honestly one of my favorite videos you’ve ever made. God bless you!
Hi Fr. Casey. I left the sacrament of penance since 8 years. But after watching this video. I was forced to go and I think I made a good confession. I now watch your videos every day. How I wish you are close to my state, I would have been attending your parish. Good job Fr. Keep up the good work.
I think that the Jesuit examen taught by St. Ignatius Loyola is really helpful. I have also felt that the secrecy in the confessional is often a gift of the Holy Spirit.
Thank you Fr. Casey...I am thoroughly enjoying your videos and they constantly help me move closer to living the life we all desire in God. Finding a new bit of knowledge about our faith each day is truly a blessing and I hope we can enjoy your content for years to come.
I don’t agree with everything in Catholicism, but I like your videos.
He is a good salesman.
@@sureevennot3418 he’s not a salesman, he’s a priest. Would you say that about another denomination?
@@sureevennot3418 How so
what don’t you agree with?
@@perezcorona_ Trying to communicate with anyone aside from God with prayer, the idea of purgatory, etc.
Thank you for educating us in so many ways Father, may God bless you .
Paz e bene padre!
I had watched some of your videos and I can say they're great! Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam!
Greetings from Poland! 💪
Have a extremely blessed day!
Father,
This was such an informative video. Thank you for taking the time to put it together for all of us. God bless you!
I'm still confessing sins I committed years ago and forgot about, or didn't realize at the time that they were grave matter. I know they aren't mortal since I wasn't aware that they were, but I figure it's my guardian angel prompting me to go ahead and bring them to Jesus.
A great video Father Casey thank you so much God bless you always Amen 🙏
Some of my best confessions have been raking leaves or in a living room. My best confessors are the ones who know me as a person so he can help me to be more honest with myself.
@@Laura-ip8nw These were sacramental confessions. When we saw where our discussion was going, one of us, usually me, would ask if he would hear my confession. While the situation has informal, the sacrament was real and the penance was far more meaningful and transformational than "Say one Our Father and three Hail Mary's."
@@Laura-ip8nw I didn't make it very clear that I was raking leaves with Fr. David or in Fr.Jack's living room.
@@old-moose - That makes sense. But . . . my own very best confession to God is usually when I'm on the farm driving the tractor for hours at a time going in rectangles around the field. I have great remorse and 'discuss it' with Him in great detail.
@@mikelastname1220 That would work too.
Yeah, I like going to the same person, too.
Thank you for the great, and very informative, video Father Casey. I appreciate all you and Father Patrick do with your channels!
The last time I went to confession, the priest started yelling; it was so embarassing, that I quickly left, and all the people waiting in line moved over to another priest. who needs that guilt?
That wasn't right. But I hope it won't keep you away from the Sacrament- with a different priest!
You sometimes need to “shop around” to find a confessor that is on the same plane. I check who the priest is before I go.
If you want to confess your love to your wife, do you need to do it through a priest? And if you want to confess your love to God through confession and prayer, you also have to do it only through a priest in a temple built by human hands? Of course not. Why? Because he wants us in our hearts in the temple of our body, there he wants to be adored, there he wants to speak and be loved because "God is Spirit." Confession and prayer are confessions of love. God's mercy is praised. Therefore, do not be afraid to confess and pray.
“But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. John 4;23
„Once, when a certain doubt rose within me shortly before Holy Communion, (56) the Seraph with the Lord Jesus stood before me again. I asked the Lord Jesus, and not receiving an answer, I said to the seraph, “Could you perhaps hear my confession?” And he answered me, “No spirit in heaven has that power.” And that moment, the Sacred host rested on my lips”. Diary of Saint Faustina 1677
@@Akacja-333 What are you saying exactly?
don't be afraid to confess in spirit
Trust in him, all ye congregation of people: pour out your hearts before him. God is our helper for ever. (Psalm 62, 9) Do not follow them. (Luke 21; 8)
What a great, easy to understand explanation of probably the most misunderstood of all the sacraments. Father Casey...you have a marvelous gift for communicating.
I have OCD. I confessed the same sin a couple of times. I just want to make sure GOD heard me.
Scrupulousity.. I had never heard of this term before today, thank you. It's something I've struggled with my whole life, I thought I was just defunct or paranoid. Thank you for all that you do :)
Fr. Casey thank you for clarifying the aspect of not hearing confession to people close to a Priest. I have a good friend that is a Priest and he told me that but didn't explain to me why, and I had had that hurt in me, you didn't hear my confession but this video has just helped me to understand that. Thank you and Happy St. Patrick's Day
Thanks man. I just became Catholic from protestant last week. I've been feeling a yearning to go to confession though I don't know whether I've committed anything more than veanial sin. I've found this really helpful. =)
I worry that I don't feel enough guilt over my sins. My conscious is weak, and doesn't make me feel guilty enough. I am terrified of sin, but it seems like I'm predisposed to sin, if that makes any sense
Were all predisposed to sin. Pray more, get closer to Jesus and toy will begin to hate your sin increasingly.
Read the Bibel.
Three recommendations: search the term “concupiscence”, prayer before reading Romans 7, discussing your situation with local parish Priest. Not necessarily in that order.
May your Lenten season be fruitful.💜🍇
Do not be troubled! Christ came precisely for the weakest and numbest of sinners like us. It is God's strength that you rely on when you go to confession in His love.
God loves the people who keep messing up and legitimately trying. For some people it’s not as hard, and in a way, their walk with God may be a bit easier. Or maybe it’s just one area of their life that’s a huge problem and once they get that under control, the waters of their soul run more placidly. But I think there’s beauty in frailty, in trying and searching and hoping and praying that you can make it through and do the right thing.
Growth and empathy are linked. In suffering, you may be a more perfect instrument of God’s love, by being able to understand and SEE someone else’s suffering, ease THEIR burden, and clear THEIR way. Your weakness could become a strength. Just keep your feet on the path and extend yourself the same kindness as you’d do others. Do not expect yourself to be infallible. Forgive yourself and remember what you learned next time you meet the hurdle.
I say all of this because... I’m doing all of this. It’s a struggle, but, I don’t think we can expect to get to Heaven on a feather bed. 😅 Be well, Robert. 💞
This guy's really good .thank you sir for sharing.
Id really like a little feed back on this from a sheep who has walked off the path from time to time.and has denned with wolves.and feels very ashamed of it.i little creptic but we all get what I'm asking.God Bless.
So, I've been watching this channel for a while (also: Upon Friar Review)
I'm not Catholic, but this is one thing that frustrates me in the protestant church (speaking as a protestant, though at this point I'm just barely short of turning to East Orthodox)
Personal struggles and frustrations aside, while I do believe that salvation is by faith alone (which I honestly question at times) I yearn for the sacrament of confession in the protestant church because not having it feels like carrying around a bag full of bricks, and while there's a finite number of dividing issues that are still keeping me from turning to East Orthodox (and slightly more preventing me from accepting Catholicism) This is needed, I don't know that repeatedly going to confession after each sin is needed for salvation, but it is for sanctification, and not having it is legitimate torture to the conscience... So, in short, asking my favorite group of Catholic brothers in Christ (if you recognize a protestant as such, or even if you don't for that matter), please pray for me.
I will keep you in my prayers 🙏
Check out Tim Staples, Scott Hahn and other Protestant converts who had similar issues as you
Prayers. And you only need to confess Mortal, not Venial sins. So you don't need to got to Confession after each sin. If that were true, I'd never leave the confessional!
You are on the road to great success!
@Casey. I believe that the Holy Spirit is guiding you.. You're already on a spiritual journey to finding yourself home with Catholic faith. Praying for you. Will be glad to welcome you home.
So glad I stumbled upon your channel. It's fun and informative. Would be great if you could do a segment on the dissection of the physical church, like the apse, the nave, etc as it has changed from its humble beginnings until now. Also could do a list of specific catholic terms, rites and how they've evolved through history. I enjoy watching you. Great way to being your ministry to the 21st century.
Your videos are a window into a mindset and way of life that I simply do not understand. It's quite fascinating.
I love confession on the fact that I know my Lord is there, seeing and listening to me. It kills me as I read the Act of Contrition how we hurt Him when we sin, yet He loves us still. Confession is humbling myself to know I messed up, again, and need God' forgiveness. And it is beautiful when absolution is given.
First, a disclaimer, I am an agnostic. But I really enjoy the joy, love and wisdom you spread. And I respect how you respectfully offers challenges and opportunity for reflection for catholic, Christians, relegius people and also non-religious.
With that said, I would like to start a discussion. I think that there are some major similarities between confession and "modern" therapy. Both in form of the session itself but also in the extreme importance of not telling or using the "information" given. I would therefor like to propose some loose points for discussion, not ordered in importance, but to simplify referencing, so feel free to discuss all or just one or some of them:
1. Is there any resemblance between confession and modern therapy at all?
2. Do you think that that modern therapy could be helpful in improving oneself?
3. Could modern therapy be considered "heretical" as it tries to give the "earthly benefits" of confession without the notion of preparing oneself to "enter the Kingdom of God"? (please forgive my extremely simplified explanation of the purpose of confession)
4. Could modern therapy learn from the experience and history of confessions in a positive way for both religious and non-religious people without being religious?
5. Could priests learn from "modern and scientific" psychology to improve how they help people in their confessions?
I would like to ask that the discussion is kept civil and respectful of participants point of view while still being acceptable of hard questions
That's a popular misunderstanding. Confession is no therapy, and shouldn't be - and therapy is not Confession, and shouldn't be. There is an overlap, because there's honesty, secrecy and help, but that's all. Confession is done to obtain absolution of sins. Therapy is to help live a more healthy life. In many cases they will contradict each other, because the priest will encourage you to feel sorry for your sins, while a therapist will try to persuade you that it's not your fault.
Fr Casey Thank you for acknowledging that scrupulosity in a mental health disorder and needs professional help. As a person with OCD I have many friends that have struggled with scrupulosity and it has caused them so much pain. I have been lucky to avoid that type of obsession but I know that if I every stat to get too tied up in my guilt to take a step back, go to confession and talk to my therapist.
Merci pour ces mots sur la confession.
Good to hear you talk about scrupulosity in the confessional, Father. Your answer reflects some of the core points made by St Alphonsus Liguori (the founder of my Congregation) who is a good authority on the subject. Keep up the good work!
Hahah oh gosh I must have grown up in the church, as soon as I heard him read "peace be with you" my brain went "and also with you"
I believe the Confiteor plus receiving holy communion forgives venial sin.
I would understand if you wouldn't want to, but making a video about the Vatican memo about LGBT people would be really informative. I, personally, do not agree with the stance Rome has taken, but I think explaining it would be beneficial to a lot of people. Thanks, Fr Casey.
The Vatican didn't take any personal opinion regarding LGBTQ issues. The Vatican only wanted to state that they want people like this to come back to church and the Sacraments. There's a lot of people who have families that have been hurt by the church. This needs to be a safe place. I am a straight woman with a background in psychology. But I have been ordered not to counsel or teach regarding these issues for people. It could hurt the soul. Just go to church. Talk to a priest. Know that you are Loved ❤️ by a Good God.
The memo is pretty self explanatory and direct
@@dawnlapka2433 Well I don't know if we're talking about the same Vatican statement, but I think it would have helped if they'd not said "We don't bless sin". That was very insensitive. Who would want to go back to the Church, after hearing or reading that? I sure as heck wouldn't.
God bless u more and always father ... Thank you for ur ministry really helps us a lot...
Thank you again about your great content
"Sorrow for sin and glee for grace"
sooo good!!
Thanks a lot, All the effort in this channel is really useful for us
Added bonus in a face to face with a conversation it helps to delve into parts of self that we have ignored and by doing so become closer to God.
Padre Pio who was a Franciscan said you should do it every two weeks. And he had confession miracles attributed to him.
Thank you. This is the best video about confession I’ve seen on RUclips.
Fantastic video! Can you go over the steps of what to do while in confession next?
ruclips.net/video/Ffx2fSULvn0/видео.html
People will get to confession after this talk Father Casey thank you.
As Protestant, I really wish we had confession. It would be so comforting.
Just become a Catholic!
Come home
Confession was traumatizing for me when I was a kid. Going into a dark room and tell some unknown man behind a curtain my darkest secrets. That was about as scary as it gets when I was 8 years old.
I always hated confession cause grandma told me to go every month. 😅 thanks for explaining why. Finally i understand
Thank you Fr. Casey ...for teaching and guiding us. I learned some interesting things with this video. God bless you
Thank you for this! My anxiety about confession still hasn't gone away, but it became less. Me going to confession will happen soon
Hi Elise, I just prayed for you. The more you do it, the easier it gets :) If it helps I made a confession with my parish priest behind a screen who could still see my reflection in the window and knew who I was...I confessed some very serious and grave sins. The next time I returned to confession (months later) I repeated something he told me during my last confession and he said, oh really? I don't remember but that sounds like something I'd say :) God is good.
@@williamswenson3970 went this weekend! Anxiety till right before, but it all fell off once I told the priest my first sin. Started with the heaviest one, and broke down in tears. It feels so good right now. I confessed to the rector of the seminary, since I knew the other two priests, but he understood me and made me feel heard. I'm planning on going again in a few weeks
@@elisejanssen4308 Praise Christ! That is amazing, I am so happy to hear that!!!!! More frequent confession gets easier once the first one is out of the way! :) God bless!
God Bless Fr. Casey
Happy St. Patrick's Day Father Casey. ☘
Thank you! Your earning my trust and your ❤️ is totally in Sync with God! 🙏🏻