The Function of Confession: A Study Based on Experiences

Author: Kettunen P.1

Source: Pastoral Psychology, Volume 51, Number 1, September 2002 , pp. 13-25(13)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

In Finland, confession has been an object of discussion within the Church for a long time. While people have demanded that its role be increased, it has almost solely been discussed in terms of quantity. This study examines people's experiences of confession on the basis of 200 letters. These experiences show that it is not the form of confession that is the central issue, but rather its function, that is, giving relief. Thus the artificial borderline between confession, pastoral counselling, and psychotherapy is blurred. The goal should thus be not to stimulate confession, but rather to stimulate ways of helping people. The starting point must be a person's distress and on the basis of this one should decide which form of help is the most relevant in any given situation.

Keywords: confession; pastoral care and counselling; guilt; shame; forgiveness

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Department of Western Theology, Faculty of Theology, University of Joensuu, P.O. Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland; paavo.kettunen@joensuu.fi

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