Do I have to go to confession?
If you are asking if you must confess and repent of your sins to be forgiven – then the answer is yes. If you are asking must you confess your sins before a priest to be forgiven, then the answer is no. Orthodox Old Catholic Churches teach if intent is sincere then the sacrament of Reconciliation is provided by receiving absolution. Absolution takes place both in the General Confession of the Mass and through private confession to either a Priest or Bishop. However, it is our belief that matters of serious sin one should partake of private confession in order to obtain not only absolution but to receive the counsel and guidance of the confessor – just as one would go to a doctor for a serious physical illness one should go to their confessor for a serious spiritual illness.
What does the OCCNA teach about abortion?
Orthodox Old Catholic Churches consider abortion at any time during the pregnancy to be the taking of a life. We encourage any woman faced with an unwanted pregnancy to consider adoption over abortion. We realize that a woman might be faced with making a decision about a pregnancy that could result in harm, or even loss of life, to herself. In these situations, we encourage that she consults with qualified professionals and clergy prior to making
May Roman Catholics, Episcopalians, Orthodox receive the sacraments from an OCCNA church/clergy member?
Absolutely! This OCCNA encourages faithful from other traditions and denominations to visit our churches and learn more about us. We do not restrict the reception of any sacraments based solely on denomination or tradition.