The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 201: The Confessor’s Role (2025)
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Jul 20, 2025 Dive into the profound role of priests as confessors in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Discover how they are called to be servants of God's mercy, not masters. The discussion highlights the importance of compassion in confession, along with the protection of the sacramental seal. Fr. Mike encourages prayer for priests to be gentle and truthful in their ministry. Delve into the purpose of excommunication and the healing nature of reconciliation, shedding light on this divine gift for believers.
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Priests as Instruments of Forgiveness
- Jesus forgives sins through the ministry of priests, not independently of them. - Priests serve God's forgiveness, acting as instruments of His mercy, not as masters of it.
Baptist Pastor's Understanding
- A priest explained to a Baptist pastor that Jesus heals through ministers, just as He forgives through priests. - This analogy helped the pastor understand priestly authority as Jesus working through ordained ministers.
Priests Should Be Available for Confession
- Priests must encourage the faithful to seek confession and be available when reasonably asked. - Making confession accessible reflects serving God's mercy, not exerting authority over forgiveness.