[arkady_renko]

What form is this taking in parishes that use it? I've got to say that I have not encountered it here in Peoria except for at a Charismatic event led by Fr. Michael Scanlon from Stuebenville. He led people in a mass confession ritual and then told them it was "good enough..." that their sins were forgiven. Pretty crazy 'Catholic' event in any case.

A_R

[fortunecookie]

Charismatic event led by Fr. Michael Scanlon from Stuebenville. He led people in a mass confession ritual and then told them it was "good enough..."

Oh, no, I'm a little shocked to hear this. I thought that Fr. Scanlon and Steubenville were less 'out there'.

What form is this taking in parishes that use it?

My parish hasn't used it in more than a few years, it was used a lot, especially at Christmas and Easter, by a pastor and 3 or 4 priests who are no longer in our area. They would hold a communal prayer service, calling it a Penance service, in the evening. It was separate from Mass. And then general absolution would be given to all, and yes, one priest in particular would say it's 'good enough'. Some in the parish complained, the Bishop was called to Rome, and then the priests started offering private confessions after the communal service, but few went. Our current pastor halted the practice. Hence the constant requests to renew it. One prominent, wealthy lady in our parish 'vows' to use her power to bring it back. (eyeroll)

Ironically, we have just one priest in our parish at this time, as one priest is away. We are told we will be having only one in the near future. At the time of the 'communal penances', there were 3 priests available at each of the local parishes.

Pretty crazy 'Catholic' event in any case.

I agree. -FC

;-)