Making Room for Grace: Private Confession in Advent
Advent is a season of holy preparation—of clearing away what clutters our hearts so we can make room for Christ. One powerful, often underused gift of the Church for this work is the practice of private confession, also called The Reconciliation of a Penitent. It is a simple, gentle, and deeply personal way to hear the assurance that God’s mercy is for you in particular, not just in general.
In our Anglican tradition, we say: all may, some should, none must make use of private confession. That means no one is required to come, but everyone is welcome—and some of us, at certain times in life, may especially need it. If you are carrying guilt, regret, or a nagging sense that something is “not quite right” between you and God, private confession can be a healing way to name what’s on your heart, lay it before God, and hear words of forgiveness spoken directly to you.
You do not have to know “how to do it” ahead of time. The priest will gently guide you through the liturgy from the Book of Common Prayer. You may speak freely, you may bring a written list if that helps, and everything shared is held in absolute confidence. The focus is not on shame, but on release, healing, and a fresh start in Christ.
Fr. Tommy will be available in the Sanctuary on Wednesday, December 17, from 4:00–5:00 p.m. to hear private confessions. If you’ve never experienced this sacrament before, consider making this Advent the year you step into this beautiful practice of reconciliation and grace.