Holy Confession (Kumbasaram)
The sacrament of repentance and reconciliation, where we return to God, receive His forgiveness, and are made whole again. The Church Fathers called it a "second baptism," because it restores the grace we received at our baptism.
The "Second Baptism"
The Church Fathers call confession a "second baptism", not because it repeats baptism (which can only happen once), but because it restores what baptism originally gave us. At baptism, we were washed clean and made children of God. Confession is how that garment is washed again.
The Six Steps of Confession
Retrospection
ആത്മപരിശോധന
Look inward. Examine your conscience: your actions, words, and thoughts. Where did you fall short? Reflect on the Penitential Psalms (Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143) and the Nicene Creed to prepare your heart.
Repentance
പശ്ചാത്താപം
Feel genuine sorrow, not just fear of punishment, but awareness that your sin has harmed your relationship with God and others.
Resolve
പ്രതിജ്ഞ
Vow not to commit those sins again. An honest, firm intention to change your life.
Verbal Confession
കുമ്പസാരം
Kneel before the priest and recite the Mawdyonutho (മൗദ്യാനൂത്തോ), the confession prayer affirming the faith of the three Ecumenical Councils and acknowledging sins in word, deed, and thought. Then confess your sins one by one, clearly and completely. The priest is a witness and guide, not a judge.
Absolution
പാപമോചനം
The priest places his right hand on your head and prays the prayer of absolution, drawing the sign of the cross on your forehead three times, for the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You respond "Amen" each time.
Penance & Communion
പ്രായശ്ചിത്തവും കുർബാനയും
Complete the penance the priest gives you, then receive the Holy Eucharist at the earliest opportunity. Confession heals; the Eucharist strengthens.
How to Prepare
Before
- Examine your conscience the day before
- Think about sins of thought, word, and deed
- Read and reflect on Psalm 51
- Come with a sincere heart
During
- Confession takes place in church with the priest wearing his stole
- Kneel with your hands crossed
- Confess all sins honestly, one by one
- Listen to the priest's counsel
After
- Complete any penance the priest has given
- Receive Holy Communion at the earliest opportunity
- Continue with prayer, fasting, and acts of charity
- If you fall again, do not despair; come back
How Often?
The Church encourages confession at least once every 40 days, or at minimum once a year. Great Lent is a natural time. Christians who do not confess at least yearly come under Church discipline.
The Seal of Confession
Everything you say in confession is kept in absolute secrecy. The priest must never reveal what anyone has confessed, not to anyone, for any reason, ever. This protection exists so the faithful can confess freely, without fear.
Ready to Confess?
Speak with the parish priest to schedule a time. There is no sin too great and no time too late.
Contact the Parish