If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them.
What happens in confession
The person confesses sins plainly, receives counsel if needed, and hears the priest pray the absolution. The point is repentance, healing, and reconciliation with God. Confession is connected to Communion because receiving Christ should be joined to a life of repentance.
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
Confession usually includes three movements. First, the person examines the conscience before God and comes with repentance rather than self-defense. Second, the sins are spoken to God before the priest with enough clarity for real guidance. Third, the priest gives counsel and prays the absolution, returning the person to the path of prayer, fasting, restitution, reconciliation, and Communion.
Why confess out loud
Sin often stays vague when it remains only in the mind. Speaking honestly before God with a priest brings the hidden wound into the light. The priest can help distinguish sin from anxiety, give practical guidance, and call the person back to prayer, fasting, restitution, and Communion in due time.
The spoken confession also teaches humility. The person stands before God without excuses, trusts the mercy of Christ, and receives correction inside the Church rather than inventing a private standard. The goal is a healed life, not a religious performance.
Confession and ongoing formation
Confession is not reserved only for moments of crisis. It is part of ordinary Orthodox formation because repentance is part of ordinary Christian life. Over time, the father of confession comes to know the person’s patterns, strengths, temptations, and wounds, and can guide repentance with patience and truth.
Someone preparing to enter the Church should ask Abouna how confession applies to that path. The answer may depend on Baptism, Chrismation, reception into the Church, and preparation for Communion.