How often should I go to confession?

How often should I go to confession?

Per the Catechism of the Catholic Church Paragraph 1457, “after having attained the age of discretion, each of the faithful is bound by an obligation faithfully to confess serious sins at least once a year. Anyone who is aware of having committed a mortal sin must not receive Holy Communion, even if he experiences deep contrition, without having first received the sacramental absolution, unless he has a grave reason for receiving Communion and there is no possibility of going to confession.”

In other words, the minimum is once per year, and ANYTIME you commit a mortal sin.

That said, paragraph 1458 states that “regular confession of our venial sins helps us form our conscience, fight against evil tendencies, let ourselves be healed by Christ and progress in the life of the Spirit.”

In other words, there are HUGE benefits to going to confession more regularly than the minimum. St John Paul II went weekly so as to participate in the graces that come from confession. Personally, I try to go at least once every two months, but once a month for me would be an ideal (based on confession availability and state in life [ie married with 6 kids, including two under three]). I find that the graces that come from confessing my venial sins to Christ through the priest (non-mortal sins) really help me get extra grace that I can palpably feel in my every-day life. [UPDATE: Bishop Muhm recommended once a quarter, or once every 3 months at the retreat].

Later in life, I highly recommend going to the same priest for confession and setting up regular appointments. This will enable him to help you in your walk with Christ as you fight different temptations in each season of life. Most of the great Saints frequently went to the same confessor.