Pope Francis Tells Priests: Keep Churches Open, Hear Confessions

Catholic Culture ^ | 4/1/13

[marshmallow]

Pope Francis joined a prominent Vatican official and seven priests for lunch on Holy Thursday and emphasized the importance of hearing confessions, according to a priest who was present at the meeting

Archbishop Giovanni Becciu has a longtime custom of inviting priests to join him for lunch on Holy Thursday – a custom that predates his 2011 appointment as sostituto, the deputy secretary of state responsible for the internal affairs of the Roman Curia. When Pope Francis heard about the meal with the priests, most of whom work with the poor, he said he wanted to attend.

[caww]

...”So does the Jesus that Catholics worship”.....

Some comments good to let scroll by....this is one of them.

[married21]

The irony is, if you, the priest, look like you are burning out, who, after looking at you, will respond to their calling to the priesthood?

Keep on chugging, and remember to express your joy about the really wonderful parts of your job, so people will be attracted to it, and ponder a calling.

[RBStealth]

Unfortunately with the Pope ignoring the Rubrics or Canon law concerning the mass(washing the feet of women), along with Canon law and rubrics , priests/pastors will ignore suggestions, as many already do.

[Malacoda]

We have the opportunity for Reconciliation four times a week, and the lines are always long...in may cases, the Fathers end up staying for at least an extra 45 minutes to ensure that everyone in line has the chance to confess.

[redhead]

Thank you, Father. Your request is added to my prayer list. Easter blessings!

[caww]

....”Just say that you do not believe in auricular confession”....

Better said, I believe that Jesus Christ is our High Priest, and He is always willing and available for whatever we need to confess...and it is He who forgives...and He who paid the price that we might have forgiveness.

The veil/curtain that separated the people from God was torn in two opening the way into the very presence of God...that we might enter “boldly” and that by the shed blood of Christ. He is our Great High Priest now and forevermore.......

Since this is so, why confess to a man who is a sinful creature, even if called a Priest, when I can go to Christ himself?

I understand that some people believe they need, or that their faith/doctrines requires them to seek forgiveness through the established Priesthood of their denomination/church...... and taught such from the time they are youngsters. I don't share that belief. I believe Christ is more than sufficient, able and willing that we come to Him....and again....He is available to us 24/7...and there are no loose ends...for HE knows our heart and our very thoughts and motives.