Fortunately, the era when it was forbidden to believe in God is over in our country. Now atheism is not taught in schools. But, unfortunately, they don’t teach how believers should behave either. One of the most difficult issues for many Christians is confession. If you only know about confession what you learned from films (and, most likely, Western ones), then this material on how to confess, what to say, and how to prepare for the sacrament will be useful. Of course, more detailed information can be obtained from the church. But it's better to go there, knowing at least something.
Preparatory stage
Many people who believe in God, but know little about church rules, ask questions about how to confess, what to say to the priest, when you can come to confession and how to prepare for it. Actually, it's not that difficult. The main thing is to understand the basic rules for yourself. If something is unclear, it is better to ask questions to the priest.
So, it's worth starting with the realization of the essence of confession. This is repentance for sins. Therefore, there is no need to go to confession "for show". If you understand that you will continue to commit the sin that you just allegedly repented of, you should not even start preparing for the sacrament.
The first step is understanding what you did wrong. None of us are perfect. And, in fact, everyone is guilty of all sins. You need to understand what you want to repent of. At the same time, you must be aware that you are asking for forgiveness from God, and not from the priest. And you ask him for help in overcoming sinful impulses.
Before confessing, decide what to say (and in what order). If your feelings are very strong, you can even write down your thoughts on paper. It's not embarrassing at all! On the contrary, it is better, referring to the list, to sincerely tell the priest about your sins. This, by the way, will save time and nerves for you, and for the clergyman, and for those who want to confess after you. You don't have to try to justify yourself. Tell everything the way it was! It is not necessary to describe at length what was done and under what circumstances. They stole it - just say so, and don’t explain that you really needed the ownerless slate on the neighbor’s site. Cheated on your spouse - so talk about it, and not about the shortcomings of your "half".
How to confess: what to say and what to keep silent about?
If you have never been to confession, you should not take part in the general confession. You need an individual conversation with a priest. This can be done, for example, on a weekday.
You can't keep silent about anything. If you realize that you have committed a sin, talk about it. The priest will help you. If he appoints penance, accept it. This is not a punishment, but a kind of "medicine" that will help you atone for your sin, do not repeat it again!
Before confession, you need to discard all shame! Do not try to keep silent about something. Believe me, the priests heard everything. You are unlikely to surprise or shock.
Where to confess in Moscow?
In principle, this can be done in any temple where a service is held. But it is better, of course, to go to confession where the heart calls. Maybe you immediately imbued with respect for the priest? Or were you baptized in this church? Follow your inner voice!
Remember, if you are not sure where and how to confess, what to say, and in general, whether it is worth doing it, it is better not to try to just approach the priest and, having said that you are sinful in everything, receive absolution. This approach is fundamentally wrong! True believers don't do that!
Patience to you and success!
