Note 692 — Chapter I · THE ESSENTIAL DUTIES OF THE CONFESSOR IN THE EXERCISE OF HIS OFFICE; OR, THE CONFESSOR CONSIDERED IN HIS OFFICE OF JUDGE

Cf. Bucceroni, l. c. n. 10, ad brevissimum tempus. Nam per se loquendo magis prodest absolutio statim data quam ejus dilatio. “For,” so he continues, “it is burdensome to remain in a state of mortal sin even one or two days: (1) on account of the danger of death, against which we are never safe, etc., and (2) on account of the priceless blessings of which we are deprived,—grace and merit. Moreover, the penitent is better prepared by absolution for again receiving the Sacrament, than by postponement of absolution, etc.” Gury (II. n. 622) remarks that, where it can be easily done, absolution may be deferred for one day or for a few hours.