One of the most important sacraments of the Catholic Church is the sacrament of confession. It is a profoundly intimate sacrament called by Pope Francis, “the sacrament of the tenderness of God, his way of embracing us.” In it, through the action of God, the penitent is absolved of their sins, sent forth from the confessional with renewed graces to lead a life of virtue.
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It is such an important sacrament that Pope Francis has asked parishes around the world to institute “24 Hours for the Lord,” a yearly opportunity where confession is offered for 24 hours (with rotating priests), giving all Catholics in the area a chance to avail themselves to God’s merciful love.
While it is a wonderful initiative, it is not the first time that priests have made themselves available to penitents over a long period of time. In fact, there were many holy priests throughout history who would regularly hear confessions for more than 12 hours in a day. They knew the importance of confession and encouraged their parishioners to frequent the sacrament so that they would have every opportunity to wash away their sins in the blood of Jesus, the Spotless Lamb of God.
Here are five such priests who focused their ministry on absolving sins through the power and mercy of God.
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Worried about going to confession? Here’s some saintly encouragement
And today we celebrate...