I was recently asked about the practice of having confessions during exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. A number of recently ordained priests in our archdiocese are promoting this. In Holy Communion and the Worship of the Eucharist Outside Mass, it states the celebration of Mass is prohibited (n. 83). Shorter periods of exposition should include readings, songs, prayers (nn. 89, 95). Part of the Liturgy of the Hours may be celebrated before the Blessed Sacrament during a lengthy period of exposition (n 96). That is all I see about other rites permitted during exposition; no hint of allowing confession. Similarly, I do not see in the Rite of Penance any indication of permission for the Rite of Reconciliation for Individual Penitents or Reconciliation for Several Penitents to celebrated while the Blessed Sacrament is exposed. Is there any liturgical or canonical basis for this new practice?
Thanks for your help.
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I cannot think of any reason forbidding it. After all, confessions may even be heard during mass, according to Redemptionis Sacramentum. I find that many of those who feel attracted to adoration are also attracted to confession. I’m inclined to support the practice of permitting confessions during adoration for the pastoral good of the faithful.