UNITED KINGDOM
International Business Times
September 21, 2014
Church of England Vicars could be allowed to report serious crimes they hear during confessions, including confessions of child or sexual abuse, if sweeping changes to the Church of England are introduced later this year.
The changes will come as a shock to churchgoers, who have shared a pact whereby the secrecy of the confessional booth has remained sacrosanct for more than 400 years.
Former bishop John Gladwin is leading the drive to compel vicars to report serious crimes that members admit to during a confession.
Gladwin led last year’s inquiry into sex abuse crimes committed by members of the Church of England clergy. He has the support of members of the General Synod, the legislative body of the Church of England.
The sacrament of confession, or penance, usually takes place in the Catholic Church, although some Church of England vicars do hear confessions. Christians believe privately confessing sins and shortcomings to a vicar or priest and showing contrition can earn forgiveness from God.
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