Catholics Embrace Confession's Shift to Grace Over Guilt

Priests see renewed interest in the sacrament as a path to forgiveness and healing, not just a recitation of sins.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Lenten period for penance started this week with Ash Wednesday, and Catholic priests are happily bracing for long lines outside the confessional. The faithful across the United States are embracing anew the sacrament that has shifted from embarrassing recitation of sin to cathartic quest for grace. Priests say confession is turning more into a conversation focused on God's mercy and love, rather than a simple list of transgressions.

Why it matters

The resurgence of confession reflects a broader shift in how Catholics view the sacrament, moving away from a focus on sin and guilt toward an emphasis on forgiveness, healing, and a closer relationship with God. This change mirrors broader cultural trends toward more empathetic and therapeutic approaches to personal growth and redemption.

The details

Until the last decades of the 20th century, confession was often a quick affair of reciting sins, followed by an act of contrition and a penance. But the growth of psychology, changes in sexual mores, and the clergy abuse scandals led to a steep decline in confession. Now, priests say the focus is on creating a space where penitents can feel comfortable opening up, with an emphasis on God's mercy and love rather than harsh judgment. Seminarians are trained to administer confession in a more pastoral, therapeutic manner.

  • The Lenten period for penance started this week with Ash Wednesday.

The players

Rev. Patrick Gilger

A Jesuit priest in Chicago who says the fact that someone shows up to confession displays their desire for holiness.

James O'Toole

A Boston College professor emeritus and author of a new history of confession.

Rev. Thomas Gaunt

Leads Georgetown University's Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate.

Rev. Mike Nugent

Was ordained in 2023 and is parochial vicar at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church in Annandale, Virginia.

Rev. Brendan Hurley

Oversees the penance preparation program at the Pontifical North American College, next to the Vatican.

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What they’re saying

“The fact that somebody shows up to confession is a lived act that they desire holiness.”

— Rev. Patrick Gilger, Jesuit priest (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Knowing that I'm loved even with my struggle, even with sin, even with the things that are challenging and shameful in my life, that I am still loved perfectly — my gosh, that is good news.”

— Rev. Mike Nugent, Parochial vicar (Instagram)

“It's about healing. You need trust, you need openness, you need vulnerability, you need honesty.”

— Rev. John Kartje, Rector of Mundelein Seminary (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Diocese of Arlington will start holding confessions on Wednesday nights at the same time as all other parishes starting at the end of this month.

The takeaway

The resurgence of confession among Catholics reflects a shift away from a focus on sin and guilt toward an emphasis on forgiveness, healing, and a closer relationship with God. This change mirrors broader cultural trends and shows how the Catholic Church is adapting its practices to better meet the needs and expectations of modern parishioners.