Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
AURICULAR CONFESSION
The obligation by divine law of confessing one's grave sins, committed after baptism, to a qualified priest. It is called auricular confession because normally the manifestation of sins is done by word of mouth and heard by the priest before he gives absolution. (Etym. Latin auricula, the external ear.)
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Recent Catholic Commentary
Those Harleys again June 17
Happy Father's Day! June 14
Top Catholic News
Most Important Stories of the Last 30 Days
Pope acknowledges 'gay lobby' influence in Vatican CWN - June 11