Repentance in Orthodox Christianity is more than feeling guilty about mistakes. The traditional word metanoia points toward a change of mind and heart: turning away from sin and returning toward God.
Is repentance only for serious failures? No. It is a continuing dimension of Christian life because growth in love, humility, truthfulness, and holiness is never finished.
Does repentance mean hating yourself? No. Genuine repentance recognizes sin honestly while trusting God's mercy and seeking healing and transformation.
How is repentance connected with Confession? Sacramental Confession gives repentance a concrete ecclesial form through acknowledgement of sin, prayer, reconciliation, and pastoral guidance.
See What Is Confession in the Orthodox Church? for more detail.
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Established with the blessing of V. Rev. Fr. Wiaczeslaw, Rector of Orthodox Christian Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (NY). |
