It is hard for me to believe I, who was raised to Confess the old school way, am now going to a priest and confesing face-face, standing.
He is a very kind priest and I felt closer to Christ in this Confession than I ever have.
It is amazing what happens sometimes
Thank you!!!! for posting that comment about your experience at confession today.
There are some truly extraordinary and holy priests in our midst; we need to overcome all compunctions about confessing sins and bring them to these priests.
Beginning the absolution, the Priest placed his hands on my forehead.
What a marvelous experience you had; no doubt you will return to him in the future. The action of placing his hands on your forehead is extraordinary; much like Christ who spit into the dirt and placed it over the eyes of the blind man. This is a tangible connection to forgiveness.
Though nothing to compare to yours, I had a similar experience with my Maronite pastor the first time I attended Reconciliation at our parish. We sat side by side. At the end of my confession, he told me he would pray for me and asked for my prayers for him. It was such a beautiful experience. I have prayed for him every day ever since and will do so until I die. It takes only one priest to alter our negative perceptions and remind us of Christ's love for us.
Thank you again, for your post!