ACC ~ James 5 v16a

LEAVING SIN UNCONFESSED. AUGUSTINE: Everyone claims this consideration from others whenever possible, for what each of us would punish if it occurred in our house, we want to leave unpunished in someone else’s house. For if we are called to a friend’s house and find him about to punish someone over whom he has power, it is considered most inhumane for us not to intervene. LETTERS 153.

CONFESS AND BELIEVE. BEDE: We must use our common sense in applying this commandment. As far as small, everyday sins are concerned, we ought to admit them to one another and believe that we are saved from them by praying for each other. But if we have sinned in a more serious way, then we ought to follow the principle of showing our leprosy to the priest and do penance for it as much and for as long as he thinks is right. CONCERNING THE EPISTLE OF ST. JAMES.

BORING AND DETAILED CONFESSION NOT NEEDED. BRAULIO OF SARAGOSSA: Since it would be a long and unpleasant task to reveal my sinful ways to you and to tell you everything in detail, it must suffice for me to reveal to your most holy mind that I am not what you believe, though I beg you to pray to God that he might make me what you believe. LETTERS 44.

Jas