On the one hand, we should feel shame while confessing our sins. Shame is an offshoot of guilt, and feeling guilty at ones sin is an important component to repentance; it proves that we recognize our fault and have a desire to change.

St. John Chrysostom, however, reminds us that instead of feeling shame when we repent, we should be more ashamed in the moment when we sin. “Sin is the wound,” he writes, “while repentance is the medicine.” Repentance through the act of Holy Confession not only takes away sin, it revitalizes our relationship with Christ; giving us renewed strength and boldness. 

Therefore, rather than feeling shame and guilt during confession, embrace the fact that you are unburdening yourself of those sins so as to experience the ultimate joy of God’s mercy and forgiveness!