At POG, it has been our custom to use the Brief Order for Confession and Forgiveness on Sundays when we do not celebrate Holy Communion. This is one of three rites of confession and forgiveness (absolution) indicated in Lutheran Book of Worship (or LBW) (similar rites can also be found in the new ELCA worship book, Evangelical Lutheran Worship). In addition, we are hopefully in the practice of confessing our sin to God privately. I thought it would be good to explore the background and meaning of each of these modes of confessing sin and hearing the good news that God forgives.

The Brief Order, or something like it, developed in the middle ages, and grew out of the priest's own prayers of confession and preparation prior to celebrating Mass. At the time of the Reformation, it was extended to the entire congregation, as were many parts of the liturgy. The Brief Order provides an opportunity to examine our consciences, repent of sin, and humble ourselves before God before receiving Holy Communion.

The service of Corporate Confession and Forgiveness (LBW p. 193) is a little like the Brief Order, but more extensive, and provides opportunity for each individual to receive absolution with the laying on of hands by the pastor. This service can stand by itself, and may be appropriate during penitential times such as Lent, or following a time of conflict or pain in a Christian community, after reconciliation has been made.

The rite of Individual Confession and Forgiveness (LBW p. 196) is intended for private confession of sin to a pastor. Although many of us have not been accustomed to this practice, it is perfectly valid for Lutherans. Luther himself gives instruction on private confession in the Small Catechism under the heading of "Office of the Keys." In some places, the Lutheran writings of the Reformation era themselves regard Confession as a sacrament, along with Baptism and Communion. &nb sp;

The questions might well be asked, "Can't you confess your sin directly to God? Why go to a confessor (pastor who hears confessions)?" Of course, God is always ready to hear and answer all prayers, including prayers for forgiveness. But there are also good reasons for confessing sin privately to a confessor. The one confessing has an opportunity to hear a concrete word from one who has been entrusted with the ministry of Word and Sacrament that they are forgiven, even in the context of their particular sin. Having a confessor helps us to be honest, to avoid rationalizing or generalizing our sin, and also helps us not to fall into despair in our guilt. A good confessor can help guide us in our spiritual journey. It is worth noting that a pastor never, under any circumstances, is to reveal what has been told him or her in confession. I myself make regular confession of sin to another pastor, and I am available to any who wish to avail themselves of this opportunity to re ceive the Word of God's forgiveness.

Whether we confess our sin corporately as a congregation, individually to a pastor-confessor, or privately to God alone, the important things are 1) that we trust God's word that we are forgiven for the sake of Jesus Christ, 2) that we respond in repentance and go forth to strive to follow Christ more faithfully, and 3) that we, in turn, forgive those who have sinned against us, that the Gospel of Jesus Christ and God's will to reconcile all people to himself and to one another, may be realized in our lives.


    In the Name of Jesus Christ, our Forgiveness and Hope,
    Pastor Bill+