Fr. Francis Randolph presents a very positive and practical understanding of the immense value of the sacrament of confession for the modern Catholic. Father Randolph helps the reader to see how the sacrament of confession meets the deepest needs of the penitent on the spiritual, emotional and psychological levels. Step by step we follow the different stages of the rite, looking at the implications of the various prayers and elements of the sacrament, to see what they can mean for the average sinner in the confessional. The author draws on his own experiences, on both sides of the grille, to explain what is atually happening in this sacrament, and why it is such a helpful part of the process of growing in the love of God and neighbor. Because there has been so much recent confusion over the nature and purpose of this sacrament, the book tackles the common objections and anxieties over confession and recommends the practice of frequent confession as a means of getting rid of stress and anxiety as well as sin, and of growing in confidence before God. "A clear, sound, eminently sensible exposition of the why and how of one of Christ's often-neglected sacramental gifts. Both Catholics who seldom or never approach this sacrament and Catholics for whom it is an established part of their spiritual lives will find a lot that is helpful and inspiring here, as will priests and catechists looking for ways to explain it and motivate people to make use of it. I hope the book is widely read." -Russell Shaw Author, Why We Need Confession "An intelligent and compassionate explanation of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and of all aspects of penance and the forgiveness of sin. This book is very helpful for younger Catholics, for older Catholics, and questioning non-Catholics." -Fr. Benedict Groeschel, C.F.R. Author, Arise from Darkness