In the past, formal manuals for the Sacrement of Confession were widely used by priests, but with increasing complexity of modern society today's confessor can be faced with more difficult and complex situations than his forebears. Futhermore, by the very nature of the seal of the Sacrement, it is not easy for him to discuss these situations with his fellow priests.

This new Guide is an attempt to create a modern equivalent of those classic manuals. It provides valuable guidance to best pastoral practice, with a wide range of sample problems and counsel; a practical summary of pertinent theology; and a useful summary of relevant canon law.