[Question:]{.underline} When in confession, should a Catholic mention that he is a member of a third order, or that he has made the total consecration to Our Lady?
[Answer:]{.underline} When we confess our sins we are bound to mention the nature of the sin, nor are we bound to go into any other further details. However, frequently circumstances are involved that increase the gravity of the sin. Such circumstances must be mentioned if they seriously affect the morality of a mortal sin; e.g. stealing from [a church]{.underline}, speaking badly against [a priest]{.underline}, or sinning against the sixth commandment with a person who is [consecrated to God]{.underline}.
Circumstances that modify the morality of a venial sin, or that do not greatly worsen the gravity of the sin, do not have to be mentioned. However, in confessing our venial sins, it is always helpful to confess any additional circumstances, that make the sin more culpable. It helps us to humble ourselves, and to know the wretchedness of our selfish wills. Consequently, we should mention such circumstances e.g. that it was a child that I mocked, or that it was my wife that I was verbally abusive towards. In this category also fall extra spiritual obligations that I have taken upon myself, and that make more clear to the confessor my refusal to respond to God’s graces. In this way, it is desirable to mention that I am a third order member or that I have made the total consecration to Jesus through Mary. This humble avowal will help our confessions to be more profitable for our soul, and to take seriously the obligations that we have bound ourselves to.
Answered by Father Peter Scott, SSPX.