Catholics Return to Confession Focused on Grace, Not a Get-Out-of-Hell-Free Card

Priests say the sacrament has shifted from embarrassing recitation of sin to a cathartic quest for God's mercy and love.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Lenten period for penance started this week with Ash Wednesday, and some 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 a cathartic quest for grace.

Why it matters

The Catholic sacrament of penance and reconciliation has seen a steep decline in recent decades, driven by the growth of psychology, changes in sexual mores, and clergy abuse scandals. However, priests now say confession is turning more into a conversation focused on God's mercy and love, rather than a simple recitation of sins.

The details

Confession used to be a quick affair - a recitation of sins, followed by an act of contrition and a penance. But now, priests say the focus is on reminding people that God's love is still close, even with their struggles and sins. The 'seal of the confessional' remains absolute, and priests aim to create a space where penitents feel comfortable opening up.

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

The players

Rev. Patrick Gilger

A Jesuit priest in Chicago.

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

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

“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

“You're not just there for what Jesus is doing in healing that person. You also have this privileged role in being present as someone shows incredible virtue.”

— Rev. Mike Nugent, Parochial vicar

What’s next

At the end of the month, Rev. Nugent's parish and all others in the Diocese of Arlington will start holding confessions on Wednesday nights at the same time.

The takeaway

This shift in confession reflects a broader move in the Catholic Church towards emphasizing God's mercy and love, rather than just focusing on sin and penance. Priests say this approach helps create a more welcoming and therapeutic environment for penitents to confront their struggles and find forgiveness.