THE SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)
WHAT IS THE SACRAMENT OF CONFESSION & ABSOLUTION?
At ServeCity Church we value and offer the Sacrament of Confession & Absolution, which Christians, including historic Protestants, have practiced, for centuries. This is an expression of Christ’s ministry of reconciliation, through His Church (2 Corinthians 5:18). Of course one is not required to confess sins to a church leader in order to be forgiven. Through Christ, we can approach God for His forgiveness, directly. However, God has also sovereignly chosen to use humans, especially Church leadership, as vessels of His healing, deliverance and even forgiveness (John 20:21-23; James 5:14, 15). Therefore, one of the ways we can receive God’s forgiveness, as promised in Scripture, is through His ministers. Remember, God has not designed us to exclusively experience Him and His benefits, by ourselves. We are called to live out our faith in community, while being submitted and accountable to healthy spiritual leadership. (Hebrews 13:17; James 5:16). This Sacrament is one of the ways we can do so.
In our weekly Communion celebration, we make a corporate, liturgical form of confession, in preparation to receive The Holy Eucharist. During the seasons of Advent and Lent, which have a special focus on repentance and preparation, we extend the opportunity for people to make a private confession. This Sacrament has proven helpful for everyone, but especially for those who desire to unburden themselves, by confessing things that are weighing on their conscience/heart, in a safe space. Outside of Advent and Lent, private confession is available, with Bishop Andrew, by appointment. — As the old Scottish proverb encourages: “Confession is good for the soul.” —
PRIVATE CONFESSION IS AVAILABLE During Advent 2024 on Thursdays: December 5TH, 12TH & 19TH. FROM 7-9PM IN 15 MINUTE SLOTS.
FAQS ABOUT PRIVATE CONFESSION
HOW TO PREPARE FOR PRIVATE CONFESSION?
Spend time in prayer and ask God to help you identify sins that are weighing on your heart and conscience.
Review / meditate on Galatians 5:19-22 (“The Works Of The Flesh and The Fruit of The Spirit”) & Matthew 5:3-12 (The Beatitudes) and examine your heart and actions in light of these. Note areas where your life and actions are not in alignment with these.
Feel free to write out your confession or write out bullet points and bring it with you. You can read it out loud, or speak from your heart. Most important is that you are repentant.
CAN I MAKE A PRIVATE CONFESSION ONLINE?
No. We do not facilitate virtual confessions. Not only for the sake of cyber security, but also because it is a Sacrament; as such, it is meant to be experienced in person. Unless otherwise noted, all Private confessions will take place at ServeCity Church (755 Oklahoma Drive Pickering)
WILL I BE IN A BOX WITH A CURTAIN / WALL OF SEPARATION LIKE THE MOVIES?
No. You will sit in chair, facing Bishop Andrew, while making your confession to God.
WILL WHAT I SHARE BE REPEATED OUTSIDE OF THE CONFESSIONAL?
No. Bishop Andrew is bound by “seal of the confessional” - a vow not to disclose or act upon what is shared with him in Private Confession.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING CONFESSION?
You enter the “Confessional” (designated space) and have a seat.
Bishop will ask you some questions around your understanding of Confession and share some thoughts and Scriptures to help you prepare your heart / mind.
You will then be invited to share your Confession.
After your confession, Bishop Andrew will inquire about your repentance around what you’ve confessed. If you are repentant, he will then lay hands on you and declare Absolution (Forgiveness). If you are not repentant, Absolution will be withheld.
Dependant upon what you’ve shared, Bishop will offer counsel and an action plan that will help you walk out your contrition / repentance.
The session will end with prayer and encouragement.
WHO SHOULD MAKE A PRIVATE CONFESSION?
Everyone. This is a great practice for anyone who desires to grow deeper in their walk with God and their accountability to church leadership. It is not just for those who have committed what are considered to be “big” sins.
WILL I BE CONSIDERED WEAK OR LOOKED DOWN UPON AFTER?
No. Confession of sin in your personal time with God, corporately at church or in private with church leadership doesn’t make you weak. It instead a sign of maturity and commitment to spiritual growth.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I ATTEND CONFESSION?
As often as needed. Whenever it is offered during seasons of Advent & Lent, it is wise to take inventory of your heart and utilize this tool, as you feel compelled to do so. You can also reach out at any time through the year if you feel it is needed.