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Written by Maria Camejo, MS
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By Maria Camejo
Recently I had a client in my office who after revealing a mortal sin to me felt she did not need to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. She felt relieved and had unburdened herself by sharing her actions with me. I explained that she needed to receive the Lords forgiveness and graces. She seemed baffled and did not understand why she would have to repeat all of it to someone she did not know. How sad for the one who was waiting to receive her confession is the one who knows her better than herself…Jesus Himself.
Catholic therapists are indeed valuable on the road to health, and depending on the emotional struggle they are sometimes indispensible. Sharing your experience with a trained professional is helpful. But the Sacrament of Reconciliation offers a particular encounter with God and with ourselves that cannot be duplicated elsewhere.
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church No. 987, “In the forgiveness of sins, both priests and sacraments are instruments which our Lord Jesus Christ, the only author and liberal giver of salvation, wills to use in order to efface our sins and give us the grace of justification. Catholic therapist should encourage the practice of Reconciliation because without it we are denying our clients the gift of healing. “The spiritual effects of the Sacrament of Penance are: - reconciliation with God by which the penitent recovers grace; - reconciliation with the Church; - remission of the eternal punishment incurred by mortal sins; - remission, at least in part, of temporal punishments resulting from sin; - peace and serenity of conscience, and spiritual consolation; - an increase of spiritual strength for the Christian battle.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church No. 1496). If you are struggling with emotions, feelings or personal obstacles it would be wise to choose a priest with whom you feel comfortable. When you have found a priest you feel you can trust, ask him if you could schedule Reconciliation at least once a month. Gradually, share with him information about your difficulties. Tell the priest what makes you feel guilty, ashamed, depressed, confused, angry, anxious, etc. It is important to return to the same priest because he will understand your particular circumstances. The regular celebration of Reconciliation while also working with a Catholic therapist can bring the gentle healing gift of grace that is essential for acquiring emotional health. Many of the confessionals are empty while the therapist sofa is occupied. We must not replace venting for confessing. Catholic therapists must be aware of their limits. We are not priests and if we do not direct our clients to the Sacrament of Penance we may hinder them from receiving forgiveness and freedom.
Mary Camejo is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and member of Catholic Therapists. See her profile at www.catholictherapists.com/mariacamejo Visit her website at http://www.counselingcatholics.com
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