Fr. Benedict Baur, O.S.B. Frequent Confession. Manchester, NH: Sophia Institute Press, 2022. Paperback $18.95. 256 pages. Available from the publisher.
Frequent Confession leads to “a constant and speedy advancement in the path of virtue.” (Pope Pius XII)
In the highly-anticipated reprint of this landmark book, Fr. Benedict Baur, O.S.B. (1877-1963) relates stories of sin, repentance, and mercy in the Scriptures to our present day lives. Fr. Baur reveals the efficacy of regular Confession for ongoing conversion and holiness.
Through his brilliant reflections, he provides evidence on the reliability of Confession for spiritual growth and lays out:
- Essential elements for every good Confession
- The three elements of contrition
- What is “compunction of heart” (and what is not)?
- What exactly is “the perfect life”?
- The different kinds of spiritual direction “suitable for different circumstances”
- 13 neglected Scripture passages that relate precisely to Abbot Baur’s topics
- The keys to acquainting yourself, perhaps for the first time, with your own conscience
- 4 guidelines for confessing venial sins
- How to grow in your life of prayer
Fr. Baur also relates why stressing the positive fruits of Christian spirituality, while not false, is a woefully incomplete approach for any soul—and might mislead him or serve self-deceptive ends. He further reveals how the sacraments help souls overcome tepidity and kindle in their hearts increased love for others.
Frequent Confession, Fr. Baur explains, will fortify souls in their struggle against temptation. By meditating on Christ’s suffering readers will be encouraged and strengthened in their own sufferings. In addition, he offers a compelling reflection on the benefits of frequent Holy Communion.
“Benedict Baur provides us a concise consideration of a devotion warmly recommended by Pius XII … the practice of frequent Confession …. the practices suggested will readily find acceptance by priests, religious and laypeople alike. The entire field of the Sacrament of Penance, and of devotional confessions in particular, is covered [it] … offers insights into the Sacrament which can make it a living, grace-bearing act for the individual Christian.” (Ave Maria Magazine)
Another reviewer shared: “This book helps to access and explain this healing sacrament and encouraging content makes a person want to run, not walk to confession. Graces abound and are available for free. All it costs is a bit of self-examination and humility. A treasure!”
One of the greatest tragedies in modernity is how often the Sacrament of Confession is disregarded. With clarity and wisdom, Fr. Baur explains why your conscience is holy and you need to obey it.
Members of the media may send an email to Sophia Institute Press’ Director of Publicity, Sarah Lemieux at slemieux@SophiaInstitute.com to receive a physical or digital copy of Frequent Confession, and/or to schedule an interview.
