The Ministry of Reconciliation, or sacramental confession as some know it, is a great gift to the Church. This opportunity to renew the gift of Christ’s forgiveness received in baptism is a way in which many Christians seek to grow in holiness, and quiet their consciences. It is a valued part a part of our common life in the Church of England as the Prayer Book exhorts:
It is requisite, that no man should come to the holy Communion, but with a full trust in God’s mercy, and with a quiet conscience; therefore if there be any of you, who by this means cannot quiet his own conscience herein, but require the further comfort or counsel, let him come to me, or to some other discreet and learned Minister of God’s Word, and open his grief; that by the ministry of God’s holy Word he may receive the benefit of absolution, together with ghostly counsel and advice, to the quieting of his conscience, and avoiding of all scruple and doubtfulness.
Alongside this, we will be producing a ‘guide for penitents’ which will explain the nature of the Ministry of Reconciliation. This will make clear to penitents what they can expect in relation to any safeguarding matters and, in particular, the way in which safeguarding issues will be managed within the constraints of the ‘seal’. It is important that this guide should command the confidence of those who regularly hear confessions and the Archdeacon of Southwark would be glad to hear from anyone who has comments to offer on it, or indeed anyone who wishes to discuss what is intended.
If you intend to hear confessions regularly, you will need to be included on the register of those authorised for this ministry. Please complete the online form here to register your attendance.
Training & resources
A training session will be held at Trinity House on 1 July 2025, 10am – 12pm.
Resource: The Ministry of Reconciliation – A guide for priests and penitents
