Practical aspects of Confession
In this fallen world, full of temptations and misguidance, the importance of Confession in our spiritual lives is greater than ever. This is why I feel necessary to reiterate few practical aspects which time and again we tend to forget.
First of all, before you come to confession try to make a proper preparation. Examine your life carefully, using as help the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, the list of the eight principle passions, the lists of sins in the daily prayers - especially those before sleep. If necessary, write out a list and bring it with you to confession.
Try not to omit anything you might have a tendency to judge as not important. It is up to the father confessor to judge this. Remember that no sin is too small to be confessed and no sin is so great that it cannot be forgiven by God, if true repentance exists.
In confessing, try to be brief and concise and, although sometimes necessarily explaining the circumstances of a particular sin, refrain from excusing yourself or confessing the sins of others. Some people like to tell a good story-this is not necessary. Some even preach sermons in confession, but this too is not the purpose of confession-let the father confessor do that if necessary.
Oftentimes many people come to confession in the same time and the priest has to hear several confessions, so others will be waiting their turn. In this case try to be considerate of their time.
If you have some personal difficulties or some particularly troublesome problems in your spiritual life, and need to discuss them at length, then arrange for a special time that the priest can dedicate only to you.
Sometimes after Confessions the priest may recommend you what is called "epitimia". This may represent the reading of certain prayers, a rule for fasting, a number of prostrations etc. Remember that this is not a punishment for your sins, but it is a necessary prescription for your spiritual healing. If you understand its importance and accept it, you are bond to follow it as closely as possible. Any changes to it should be discussed with your father confessor.
Overall come to confession with an open soul, and remember that, one that repents and comes to receive the Sacrament of Confession properly, does not limit only to confess his/her sins, but also commits to unceasingly fight against sin and passions. Confession is not an end in itself but is rather a new beginning of a new life in Christ.