Is it necessary to confess how many times one has sinned?
The short answer
Yes, for grave sins, as best you can. Canon law requires confessing all grave sins in kind and number. An estimate such as "several times" is fine, and if you forget, your sins are still forgiven — mention them at your next confession.
Kind and number
Canon law obliges the faithful to confess, in kind and number, all grave sins committed after baptism and not yet confessed, of which they are aware after a careful examination of conscience (CIC 988).
Estimates are fine
If you don't know the exact number, give your best estimate or an approximation such as "several times."
If you forget
If you forget, or later remember more occurrences, your sins are still forgiven, but mention them at your next confession.
Continue exploring
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