Confession is obligatory for an Orthodox Christian. It's like a shower for a person engaged in physical labor. Everyone sins, if not by deeds, then by thoughts. Everyone needs a doctor in the person of Christ, and in the Sacrament of Confession you communicate with Him, and not with the priest. By the way, the result - the absolution of sins - does not depend on the worthiness or unworthiness of the priest. If he is in the clergy, he has the right to read a prayer for permission. In Communion, a person cleansed of sins unites with his Creator. How to Confess and Communion?
No fear
Don't be afraid of the confession itself. Most priests will listen to you very calmly, often sympathetically. They may be surprised, they may suffer for you, but no one will offend you, and sins confessed in the presence of a priest cannot be disclosed. For this they are defrocked, and this is very serious. Most priests are conscientious people andthinking, they are afraid not only of the external sanctions of the world, but also of the Judgment of God, which cannot be deceived. Therefore, they can be trusted unconditionally.
About myself. And only about myself
How should I confess and receive communion? In confession, do not complain, do not accuse and do not make excuses. You can only judge yourself, and it's only about you. About how you reacted incorrectly and failed the test given by the Lord. In every situation, God creates the possibility of a righteous choice, but sometimes people do not see it, or do not want to see it, due to the greater complexity and difficulty for them personally. It's easier to have an abortion after fornication than to admit your sin and raise a child. It is easier to go to a sorcerer than to change your life with the help of work and trust in God. It is easier to blame others than to think about the share of your guilt. Communion is possible only for those who have reconciled with everyone and made amends to the offended.
Will I be forgiven?
How to confess and take communion to a person who has committed a grave sin in the past? Remember that God can blot out all records of sin in the hands of demons. But the condition is sincere regret, the recognition of behavior as wrong and the determination not to repeat their mistakes again. God is merciful. Especially to those who are kind and pity their neighbors. The merciful will be shown mercy.
To a non-Orthodox Christian
How to confess and receive communion if you, being a Christian, do not belong toOrthodox denomination? There are two options, the choice will be made by the priest. This is either the rite of joining the Church, or baptism with the conditional wording "if not baptized." Former Catholics and some Protestants are most often simply joined. Much depends on what kind of baptismal procedure was performed on you - with or without dipping into water. But the father will make the decision. After that, you will be able to participate in Church life as a full member.
Don't delay repentance
How to confess and take communion without condemnation? Be honest in confession, be thorough in preparing for Communion (abstinence, fasting, prayer). If you have not been able to refrain from sin, postpone the sacrament, but not confession. In general, you can confess at least every day. The frequency of the sacrament depends on the decision of your priest. Although ideally it should be as often as it turns out. But in reality, it usually happens once a month.
How to confess and receive communion? Be honest with yourself and in confession, prepare diligently and rely on God's help.
