In this episode—Forgiveness & Confession—of Wannabe Saints, we welcome special guest Father Ditomo to dive into forgiveness and confession. We talk about the difference between mercy and forgiveness, why confession is key to spiritual growth, and where it’s found in Scripture. Plus, we discuss how confession can be a powerful source of psychological healing. Don’t forget to check out our show notes for timestamps on all the key topics in this insightful 2.5-hour conversation!   Listen to Father’s Podcast here: The Grace Filled Life   Have a question, comment, or topic you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us at wannabesaintspodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @Wannabe_Saints. Find all our links here: https://linktr.ee/WannabeSaints   Episode Time Stamps: 0:04:51 – Mercy vs. Compassion 20:22 – If someone confessed murder, can the priest tell them to turn themselves in? 22:20 – Confession: The Genius Sacrament 24:38 – Difference Between Grace and Mercy 27:52 – Where Is Confession in the Bible? 33:12 – Why Confess Sins to a Priest? 39:33 – Causing an Offense Against Someone and Going to Them Before Confession 40:52 – Mortal vs. Venial 43:33 – Free Will in Mortal Sin? 46:39 – Is Suicide Grave Matter? 49:49 – Sexual Sin 55:53 – Why Does It Feel Like You Fall Harder into Sin After Going to Confession? 1:02:47 – When You Forget Sins in Confession but Remember After, Have They Been Forgiven? 1:04:07 – How Specific Do You Need to Be in Confession? 1:06:00 – Is the Number of Times Just for Mortal Sin? 1:13:44 – Why Is Frequent Confession a Good Practice Even If It Isn’t a Mortal Sin? 1:16:37 – Praying While in Mortal Sin 1:21:20 – Do You Need to Confess Past Sins as You Further Develop Your Conscience? 1:24:41 – Examination of Life/General Confession 1:27:42 – Should You Write Things Down for Confession? 1:32:47 – Should Everyone Have a Spiritual Director, and How Do You Get One? 1:38:57 – Withholding Forgiveness and Holding Grudges 1:46:21 – Scrupulosity 1:54:27 – Psalm and Prayer to Help With Scrupulosity 1:57:26 – Confessing Behaviors That Are More Weakness Than Sin 1:59:49 – Why Do Priests Give Small Penances? 2:11:11 – Communion Covers Venial Sins—Should You Still Go to Confession Regularly? 2:13:37 – Bad Advice From a Priest or Not in Line With Church Teaching 2:17:00 – If the Priest Messes Up the Prayer of Absolution