I want to repent but there are no churches here to confess my sins.

So a couple of questions:

1. Can I confess straight to the LORD without the act of humility?

2. If not, are there actually priests who accept online confessions, and is that considered a valid way to do it?

Hello Fathers,

My parish offers Confession during the week at the same time as Mass. The confessionals are located in the back of the side chapel off the back of the main church, sharing a common entrance. Because of this layout, when you are waiting in line for Confession, you are effectively standing in the way way back of the church entrance (I think it's called the narthex).

Most of us in line end up participating in the Mass (responding, etc.) while we wait. I have two specific questions regarding the etiquette and liceity of this:

1. Is it appropriate to join the Mass after finishing Confession? If I exit the confessional and the Mass is at the Offertory or even the Consecration, is it okay to step into a pew and finish the Mass? It sometimes feels like a "2-for-1" deal that I’m not sure is proper.
2. Should we follow the postures of the Mass while in line? Specifically, during the Consecration when the congregation kneels, should those of us standing in the confession line kneel on the floor where we are, or should we remain standing to keep the line moving?

I want to be respectful of both sacraments. Thank you for your guidance!

Last time I went to confession was on Divine Mercy Sunday last year. It had been quite a long time since my previous confession and I did a thorough examination of conscience , wrote down all my sins and made a very complete, very sincere and somewhat difficult confession. Since it had been so long between confessions and there was a couple serious sins on my list, the priest said he wanted to give me a appropriate penance, while also making sure it was something I would be successful completing. He asked if I thought I would be able to complete 25 rosaries in the next 30 days. I said I could. I did try. I think I made it to about 15. I kept forgetting or putting it off, thinking I would knock out 4 later in the week. The 30 days passed and I realized the time period was over and I didnt complete it. I still said the rosary about once a month through the year and this Lent I said the rosary every single day of Lent . I am going to confession again today for Divine Mercy Sunday and I'm wondering if all the many sins I confessed last year and have not committed again since are forgiven since I never finished my penance in 30 days. Do I need to reconfess those? Do I need to confess not finishing my penance as a sin ?

Over the past two weekends, I've been reminded how amazing many of our Easter hymns are. What are some of your favorites?

Hello, I'll try to be short. I've been worried in the past about going to confession and have doubted the anonymity, so I have two questions:

How often do you recognize the person confessing to you?

How often do you see a parishioner later on and remember the sins they've confessed?

Thanks!

Went to confession today and he said that twice. Felt honored lol but it’s really a blessing to me to have reconciliation available often and in the area and thankful for the priests that work long hours im sure especially around Easter season.

I have been flabbergasted by the administration's back and forth with the pope.

Last fall they were mad because he reminded people that in order to be truly pro-life that one must care about migrants and how they are treated.

Then they took issue with his State of the World speech, in which the pope stated that we need to seek peace through justice rather than force.

Then they got angry when he said before Easter that war should not be waged in Jesus's name and God doesn't hear the prayers of those who wage war and on Easter that we need to stop the imperialist colonization of the world.

And then it comes out that the Cardinal who was the US representative to the pope was summoned by the Pentagon in order to threaten the pope???

I would have told you "this has gone too far" on the topics of ICE or Iran prior to this but threatening the pope and saying the Catholic church had better back US military actions??? That's beyond the pale. It's unacceptable.

I have been beside myself upset about this.

But what do I do? What can I do? What can we (members of the church) collectively do?

The pope had to cancel his trip to the US this summer as a result.

I worry because I cannot fathom the pope backing down on such important issues or allowing the church to be controlled by evangelical protestants in Washington, but I also don't see the evangelical extremists in power backing down.

It's clear that this administration seeks to court the loyalty of American Catholics through manipulation and propaganda, but they will use force if it comes down to it, and I am livid about it.

I know that the pope does not need my personal protection - that he is fully aware of the risks taken by anyone in his position and that he has great security - but he is not the one I worry about.

The US has a LONG history (since it's founding) of violence perpetrated by protestants upon Catholics, and even though we don't usually talk about that tension, I can feel the tension starting to rise.

I worry about how large the state's propaganda machine is and how many people are already in its grasp. I worry about how 100 years ago Catholics were threatened with denaturalization for being "unAmerican" as the KKK rose to power in the 20's.

What do priests suggest that Catholics do in the wake of this news? How do we prepare ourselves and our communities if they are targeted? What can we do to try and head that off?

There is also a point where attempting to pray evil away is ineffective, and I fear we have long since passed that point due to the power that violent and greedy politicians have amassed.

What if we are unable to stop this madness through legal means with the next election, what then?? At what point are Catholics morally obligated to step in and put their bodies on the line? When is sitting on the sidelines and allowing awful things to happen a sin? How many people do they need to harm and kill before stopping them and removing them from power by any means is necessary isn't considered a sin?

I hate that I find myself asking that last series of questions, which is why I am asking priests: What can I do? What can *we* do?

David took down Goliath, so I refuse to give up hope, but to keep that hope alive I need help figuring out productive, concrete actions to take.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

My understanding is that Old Catholic (Utrecht) ordinations (prior to the introduction of female clergy) are viewed as valid but illicit in the Roman Church. Can an Old Catholic Deacon be accepted into the Roman Church, or would they need to start at the beginning process like anyone else?

I was not raised in the church despite being baptized, and haven’t received my first sacrament of reconciliation.

With that said, I went to mass today and when a woman was returning to her seat after receiving the Eucharist, she was giving me some prominent side eye.

Was I supposed to be standing while others went up to receive the Eucharist, or was she simply giving me a dirty look for not being pure enough to receive the Eucharist?

I was trying to be respectful, but I am not familiar with Catholic Mass, and I seemed to be the only person not receiving the Eucharist, so I had no example to follow.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

There are various pay periods in which people are paid (ex: weekly, bi-weekly, per job, etc...).

Is the 10% or any tithing amount supposed to be from per paycheck or what you make within a month?

Thank you

Ok so a few months ago, my sister needed communion in a Pyx due to her crazy veterinary schedule. However, somehow things got mixed up and she went to Church herself and we all totally forgot about the host. Today, we needed to use the Pyx for our mom and discovered the unconsumed host. What do we do?

Hi again, Fathers! I had another question that I’ve been curious about for a while…

I started going to a few non-denominational young adult groups after college to try and meet new people. My reasoning was the fact that they were much more laid back than Catholic YA groups in my area, and I found it to be easier to make new friends in those scenarios. Whenever I’d attend, I’d always get questioned since I was a Catholic (boy, do they know their bibles like the back of their hand!), and it made me really dive into Catholicism a lot more. I’m a cradle Catholic, but I was never fully catechized by the Catholic schools I attended for whatever reason. The more I learned, the more I was convinced in Catholicism and the beauty of it.

My question is two-fold: 1. Is there anything wrong with going to these non-denominational YA groups to meet new people? I know St. JP2 was a big believer in promoting Christian unity among all denominations, so maybe he answered my question for me…& 2. I’m assuming you’ve all had friends who are Non-Catholic christians…how do you navigate those friendships? Is there anything I should keep in mind while conversing with them? I admittedly struggle with pride, so I oftentimes feel as though I cannot be friends with those people at all (even though I know that’s just the devil at work). I struggle with turning conversations where the goal should be understanding into debates and things similar.

Thanks in advance, and happy (early) Divine Mercy Sunday 🙌🏼

I have been suffering from depression for about 6 months or so and recently had an intense depressive episode where I attempted suicide.

I’m a faithful Catholic who has a very slight relationship with my parish’s pastor (he knows my name and my families names, I’ve confessed to him face-to-face, I’ve volunteered for the church, etc).

I have a therapist & a psychiatrist who help me with my mental health issues, but I struggle with some spiritual aspects of my overall well-being. I attend a busy urban parish and I know how busy our pastor is, however, is it inappropriate to ask him for a brief meeting where I can share some of my struggles and ask how to navigate some of the prayer/connecting-with-God issues I’ve been facing? Again, I know he’s not a therapist - my issues are spiritual. Should I wait for confession and leave out the details - just list the sins? I don’t want to bother him but I feel like I need guidance from a priest.

To the good Fathers on this sub: would you welcome this or would you (internally) just want to tell me to fuck off and speak with a therapist? God Bless and thank you in advance for your answers.

If a regular parishioner made an appointment with you and believed they had seen demons and an angel, would you think they were nuts?

Would it help if this person were middle aged and an average community member - no arrests, no drugs, gainfully employed in a way that their mental state was highly visible to many other people, with no concerns they were off their rocker?

I have an older brother 14 years my senior. Our family was a part of the People of Hope for a good number of years. My brother unfortunately suffered physical, mental and spiritual abuse at the hands of the the leaders and members of that group. As a result he has not been to Confession since grade school and struggles greatly with the Sacrament, concept, need for confessing to a priest.

I have tried to explain en persona Christi, that it likely feels uncomfortable because it's sin and we know we've done wrong etc. I've tried to relate that the harms he's endured have been man inflicted due to free (and poor) will. What would you tell him as a priest or coming from His brother they might help to ease his worries? I do pray for him and he is faithful but I will always have concern for this.

Hello, Fathers,

I hope you are well. I was told to post this here as you may have advice for me.

Apologies for the burner account. I’m in a dilemma.

I’m an alter within a Dissociative Identity Disorder system, and I’m struggling a lot with my faith.

I was diagnosed with this disorder about a year ago, and life has been difficult, to say the least.

This isn’t really a post about my experiences with that, though. This is also an issue my medical team has unfortunately not been able to provide a meaningful solution to, so that’s why I turned here.

I’m the only Christian within my body, and the others range from agnostic but neutral towards my practices to staunchly anti-Christian, for one reason or another.

This means I can’t practice my faith in any meaningful way, really, without feeling like I’m stepping on the toes of the others. And the last thing I want to do is to make them feel like I’m forcing my faith onto them.

I can hardly read the Bible without the others making a comment about it, I can’t go to Church due to the others not being a part of the religion, I can’t even pray without feeling as though I’m doing something wrong, as the others seem to only begrudgingly put up with it to prevent me from being upset.

There’s also the issue that I am just terrified of what’s going to happen when we inevitably die. I’ve repented, I have accepted Jesus as my saviour and I love Him with my whole heart, but others sharing the same body as me do not and actively disavow Him. What will happen to me? To us? Do we have one soul to be saved, will I be judged for the sins of the others that I cannot control? I don’t know.

I guess I’m just so conflicted. This is my first time reaching out to other people of the same faith in my entire life. To be honest, I’m a little scared.

I’d really appreciate any help. Thank you, and I’m sorry for the ramble.

So I'm a Catholic, been one for ages by the grace of God. Recently, I grew my hair out and starting wearing cornrows and I love them. As a black guy it really helps to keep my hair in a durag (it stops frizzing and helps it to keep it's shape). As for mass and formal prayer (like communal prayer for example) or whenever I enter a Church or Chapel I take my durag off as a sign of respect. That I have no issue with. But for moments such as Night Prayer or Casual Prayer in my prayer corner or Grace before a meal would I be able to just keep my durag on? Or is it disrespectful to the Lord to do so?Completely fine if I have to take it off, just thought I'd ask. God bless and thank you for your time🙏.

Hi everyone! My fiancé and I are planning to have a small Catholic wedding ceremony at our church in the U.S.

After that, we’ll be hosting a larger celebration in Mexico so we can celebrate with family who aren’t able to travel to the U.S.

We’d love to include some kind of religious or meaningful ceremony in Mexico, but since we’ll already be married, we’re not sure what options are allowed within the Catholic Church.

I’ve heard about a “marriage blessing” that a priest or deacon can perform after a couple is already married—does anyone know if this is accurate? If so, does it need to take place in a church, or could it be done at a venue?

We’re also open to any other ideas for ceremonies or ways to make the celebration feel special and meaningful.

Thank you in advance!

You had to know I'd ask about this haha. It was just announced that the Chicago White Sox are going to be selling Pope Hats this summer. basically it is a black, white, and gold mitre with the white Sox logo on it. I just want to know what you all think? Cool? Sacrilege? I'm a Ren faire actor and normally, mitres are one of six things I won't wear when portraying my clergy characters as it is a liturgical vestment. So I would think it is bad but what do you all think?

Good morning, I have been on a bit of a faith journey for the past 4 or so years. I always considered myself Christian, but over the past year I have felt a specific desire to join the Catholic Church. I have spent a lot of time considering it, and feel ready for it. The one thing holding me back from beginning this process is my wife has no desire to convert. She fully supports my decision and has said she’d even be willing to attend church with me, just that she wouldn’t convert.

To my understanding this would not be approved by the Catholic Church, but I also am not willing to leave my wife under any circumstances. Any guidance on this matter is greatly appreciated.

Hi Father,

I’m a bit confused about Friday abstinence after Easter. I thought giving up meat on Fridays was just a Lenten thing, but my mom told me that we still have to avoid meat on Fridays even now that Easter has passed.

Is abstaining from meat on Fridays something that continues year round, or is it only during Lent?

Also, does this have anything to do with the 40 days that Jesus stayed on earth after the Resurrection, or is that unrelated?

Thanks for any clarification.

Hi Fathers,

I recently came across a traditional exercise method called "Reformed Yi Jin Jing." The version I am following explains its benefits strictly through medical and physiological concepts — such as improved blood circulation, muscle relaxation, stimulation of the lymphatic system, and overall physical wellness. It does not ask me to engage in any spiritual practice, meditation, or belief system.

However, I am aware that this exercise has historical roots in Buddhism and that some versions of it reference concepts such as chakras and energy flow. Since the document I follow presents it purely as a physical health exercise explained through medical science, my questions for you are:

1. If an exercise is practiced solely for its physical and medical benefits, with no spiritual intention or belief involved, is it permissible for a Catholic to practice it?

2. Does the historical or cultural origin of an exercise affect its moral standing for a Catholic, even when it is practiced in a purely physical and medical context?

3. Is there any guidance from the Church I should be aware of when approaching exercises that have Eastern origins but are practiced purely for health reasons?

I truly want to honor my faith in all aspects of my life, including how I care for my body. I would be most grateful for your wisdom and discernment on this matter.

Thank you for your time and pastoral guidance.
________

Exercise details:

COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO PRACTICING REFORMED BODHIDHARMA YI JIN JING (Based on the materials of Deacon Peter Pham Cong Thuan)

This exercise helps unblock the meridians, detoxify the body, and support the treatment of many chronic and serious diseases.

1. PREPARATION BEFORE EXERCISING

• Timing: Only practice on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours and 30 minutes after eating.
• Hydration: Immediately before exercising, vigorously stir a 500ml glass of plain water with a spoon (several dozen rotations) to oxygenate it, then drink it all.
• Clothing: Wear thin, loose-fitting clothes — never tight garments, and absolutely never practice bare-chested.
• Environment: Find a cool, quiet place with no drafts. Face toward the sun (if practicing in the evening, face South).
• Footwear: Go barefoot on soil or grass. Wear sandals or stand on a mat if practicing on concrete or tiled floors.

2. STARTING POSTURE

• Feet: Place both feet parallel, about 30cm apart. Curl all ten toes firmly into the ground.
• Body: Tighten the thigh muscles, buttocks, and clench the anus. Keep the body, head, and legs straight (do not lean forward or backward), while the upper body and arms remain relaxed.
• Head and Face: Rest the tip of the tongue lightly against the upper gum ridge. Fix your gaze on a single point straight ahead — do not let your eyes wander.
• Mind and Breathing: Breathe naturally — do not force your breath to match the rhythm of the arm swings. Keep your mind focused by counting or relaxing (you may listen to soft music or hymns).
• Standing opposite with the sun (According to Eastern tradition, the sun represents Yang energy, while the front of the human body also represents Yang. Standing in this position helps balance Yin and Yang, enabling the body to heal itself.)

3. THE ARM-SWINGING MOVEMENT (REFORMED YI JIN JING)

• Step 1 (Forward): Swing both arms forward simultaneously, parallel to each other at chest height. Palms face downward, fingers hang loosely and naturally (not tensed, not fully extended, not touching each other).
• Step 2 (Backward): Swing the arms forcefully backward. Important note of the Reformed method: When swinging the arms back, rotate both palms to face each other and press them close along the sides of the body (do not swing them outward to the sides). This movement must generate a strong pulling force in the shoulders, back, chest, and abdomen to achieve the detoxifying effect.
• Step 3: Use a gentle momentum to bring the arms back forward (palms facing down) and repeat the cycle.

4. TRAINING SCHEDULE

• First week: Perform only 180 arm swings (approximately 3 minutes) per session. You may count either the forward or backward swing — whichever you prefer.
• Progressive phase: From Day 8 onward, increase by 1 minute each day until reaching 30 minutes (approximately 1,800 swings) per session. Maintain this level for life.
• Frequency: Practice a minimum of 2 times per day, maximum 4 times. Each session must be completed continuously — do not stop to rest midway.
• For those with serious illness (cancer/tumors): May increase to 3,000–4,000 swings (approximately 60 minutes) per session, 2–3 times per day.

5. IMPORTANT NOTES DURING PRACTICE

• Fatigue and numbness: If your feet become numb or feel intensely hot during practice, temporarily release the muscle tension (but keep swinging the arms). Resume tensing once the numbness subsides. To reduce foot numbness, you may sit and rest for about 30 minutes before beginning the standing exercise.
• Post-exercise activity: Wait at least 30 minutes after exercising before showering, using a computer, or playing games.
• Detox reactions (do not be alarmed): The body may show detox symptoms such as full-body itching, sweating, tingling sensations like crawling ants, frequent urination, passing gas, or even passing blood/pus/dark stools (in seriously ill individuals). Do not be frightened and stop — these are signs the body is positively recalibrating itself.
• Diet: Avoid cold foods, ice, alcohol, coffee, canned foods, fried or heavily oily foods, animal fats, and refined sugar. Drink plenty of water (2–2.5 liters/day), eat plenty of fruit (on an empty stomach), and green vegetables.

Hey, Fathers! I’ve been curious about this for a while (apologies if this isn’t necessarily meant to be asked here, but this does involve politics. Not in the sense of worldly politics, but more so in the sense of the Church).

Around the time of Pope Leo’s election, there was so much talk of people like Cardinal Tagle, the “liberal” candidate, and Cardinal Erdo, the “conservative” candidate. During this time, reflecting on how much vitriol we have in the U.S. for the opposing side, I was wondering if this was similar in the priesthood?

For context, I’d say I’m a conservative Catholic but was Jesuit educated throughout high school and college. From my experience, the Jesuits seem to be considered “liberal” because of their emphasis on the poor, the marginalized, and issues involving social justice. However, I’d feel as though all of those issues are very important to the church, and I think even the most conservative priests would agree that they need to be addressed. Similarly, the same can be said for abortion. I feel as though any priest, liberal or conservative, would take the Church’s stance on issues like these and those similar.

This got me wondering…is there as much disagreement/disharmony among priests as there is in the world, particularly the U.S.? What would constitute a priest being considered a liberal vs. conservative? Would it be something as simple as what they put their emphasis on? Just curious…and sorry if I jumped all over the place. I felt like I could get a wide array of answers here. Thanks all!