What Is Confession in the Orthodox Church?

Confession is the Holy Mystery of repentance and reconciliation in which an Orthodox Christian confesses sins before God in the presence of a priest and receives the Church's prayer of absolution.

Are sins confessed to the priest instead of to God?

No. The confession is made to God. The priest stands as a witness, pastor, and spiritual physician who listens, offers guidance when appropriate, and pronounces the prayer of forgiveness entrusted to the Church.

Why confess aloud?

Speaking honestly about sin can break through self-deception and help repentance become concrete. Confession is not intended to humiliate a person but to bring what is hidden into the healing light of Christ.

Is Confession only a list of broken rules?

Orthodox repentance is deeper than making an inventory of offenses. It means turning the heart and life back toward God. Prayer, forgiveness of others, and a willingness to change belong to that process. See also How Do Orthodox Christians Pray?

How often should someone confess?

Practice varies according to pastoral circumstances and local tradition. Orthodox Christians should follow the guidance of their priest or spiritual father.