Dear Robert Flummerfelt,

If a priest would mention in his conversation a sin of a particular profession in general without citing a specific person in which he got such information in the confessional, does he directly violate the seal of confession? As an example, he learned in the confession that doctors are assisting patients to commit suicide as confessed by a doctor penitent and he mentioned that evil practice of the doctors in one of his conversation with his friends. Did he violate the seal of confession directly or indirectly?

Thanks and God bless!

Hi Anonymous,

A priest would not, under normal circumstances be directly violating the seal of confession, but only would be doing so indirectly. Of course, that too is unacceptable.

Now, if people could figure out who this penitent was, then the priest would have directly violated the seal of confession. There is NEVER any justification for a priest to reveal in any way the identity of a penitent, even if done indirectly.

From my little perspective, I also think it is dangerous for a priest to speak about his encounters with anyone in the confessional during his homily. Perhaps that person is present at the Mass/Divine Liturgy. I highly doubt that person would ever go to that priest again. I think it is, beyond the clear adverse canonical implications, it is also highly imprudent for a priest to ever in any way, speak about what was said to him in confession. This way, he never falls into that possible situation. This, by far, must be one of the hardest things a priest must do and I understand how truly difficult, as a human this can be, but in my profession as both an attorney and canon lawyer, I am obliged as well to keep things completely and totally confidential under both attorney/client privilege and at times under pontifical secret. So, as the phrase goes to those who are given much, much is expected. Because of the level of trust, respect and deference given to priests and attorneys/canon lawyers, we have an absolute obligation to maintain that high level of integrity and NOT to betray in any way our clients or in the case of a priest, his penitents.

Blessings, Bob

COPYRIGHT 2009

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