I am curious about the rite of confession in the Eastern Rites. How similar are they to the Latin rite? How different? What does one do? How often is one expected to go? As a Roman Catholic, I am encouraged to go frequently, and try to make it about once a month, regardless of the amount of sin I have, simply because I need to hear Father's encouragement. (He's an EXCELLENT confessor!)
There are no differences that I am aware of. If anything, the Eastern catholics, like their contemporary Latin brothers and sisters, have fallen prey to secularism. They are "sinless". Father constantly reminds us of this and is available to hear confessions each Sunday up until 1/2 hour before liturgy but I have never noticed anyone taking him up on the offer.
That said, he has gone to the next level by offering two Penance services each year - at Advent and Lent. The Penance Service begins with the hymn posted above. This is followed by an exchange of prayers with in which we ask our Lord for His mercy. Then, as on Sunday, we sit for 2 readings (Baruch 5:1-9) and (Philippians 1:3-6, 8-11), followd by the Gospel (Luke 6:27-38) and Father's homily. After this, we have the Examination of Conscience. Two readers lead us through this. Example:
All: Teach me your paths, O Lord, for you are God and my Savior.
Reader 1: St. Paul reminds us that discipleship involves growth in love and understanding. Do I take the time to nourish my faith in prayer and reflection?
Reader 2: Am I grateful to God for the blessings of my faith, for the support of other believers and for the peace I experience? Do I accept even my doubts as part of the life of the disciple?
All: Do I judge others harshly, assuming the worst about their motives and actions? Do I listen to or spread gossip? Have I tolerated prejudice or slander toward other people?
And we pause for reflection. There are 6 of these reflections, followed by the Act of Contrition and personal confession.
Once confessions are completed, we give thanksgiving to God through an exchange of prayers followed by the sign of peace with our neighbors. This is followed by a Final Blessing and dismissal with a hymn.
(He's an EXCELLENT confessor!)
Give thanks to God for this gift of a priest! While the Eastern Churches acknowledge our sinfulness, greater emphasis is placed on God's mercy. "Your mercy, O God, is as deep as the ocean."
In Eastern Tradition in general, and in Maronite Tradition in particular, due to the rich heritage of monasticism, fasting has played a very important role in the life of the Church. Not only Friday, but Wednesday were seen as days of fasting. Through fasting and other forms of penance, we can realize that interior change of heart that is so necessary for all Christians.
"...I need to hear Father's encouragement. (He's an EXCELLENT confessor!)"
What are the marks of a good confessor? How will I know if a priest is a good confessor?