Question
My husband went to confession last week and the priest asked him very direct questions about whether he had watched pornography. My husband was not very bothered about the question but I am unhappy. I feel that priests should not ask questions to get you to admit sins. Now I feel uncomfortable at church. Is this a normal question for a priest to ask?
Response
First, it is best that penitents not discuss their confessions with others because a priest is under the seal and cannot defend himself.
Second, if he told you what transpired, then you have a certain liberty to talk with him or to anonymously explore the issue; however, if it be something you overheard while your husband was in confession, then you would be under the seal as well (and could not bring it up).
Third, the questions that a priest asks are often based upon the sins normally confessed. A priest might ask about pornography because many other sins are associated with it. Withholding a mortal sin is also a mortal sin so the penitent would best confess such a sin without too much prodding.
Answering your question, yes it is an appropriate question. The sins we are uncomfortable in admitting are precisely the sins that should be confessed to a priest. He wants to insure that the penitent makes a good confession. Purposely retaining a mortal sin would in itself constitute sacrilege which is also mortal. Be thankful that the priest helped your husband to receive God’s mercy. This is far more important than any embarrassment or discomfort you might now feel in church.
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