When we have become aware of sin (that something is coming between us and God) and if we have come to feel sorrow for this sin (penitence) and are determined to put it behind us (repentance), then it may be a good idea to say out loud the name of our sin. We call this confessing our sin (from the Latin word 'to declare').
We may do this privately in prayer before God and trust that God's Holy Spirit may give us the assurance that God forgives us.
Alternatively, we may make a 'general confession' of our sins along with other Christians during a service of worship. A minister may then assure the congregation of God's forgiveness and, if a priest, may give an absolution.
Alternatively again, some Christians will make a 'private confession' of their sins in the presence of a priest in the sacraments of 'the reconciliation of a penitent'. The priest may suggest some act of penance - which may involve putting things right if we have wronged someone, or agreeing to say certain prayers or do certain things - and then may give a personal assurance of God's forgiveness in absolution.
What is said to a priest in the sacrament of reconciliation is very, very private and confidential. It should be as if only God has heard what has been confessed .
© J D Yule 2003