WA State Law now demands that priests violate the seal of confession. Archbishop Etienne has reminded all priests that they are not, in any way, to adhere to this law and are currently working to challenge SB5375. – Fr. Carlos, in an update to staff on 5, 5, 2025
Following the passage of the bill, Archbishop Etienne composed a letter to the public further explaining the position of the Church in Western Washington. It is available to read in several places, including the Northwest Catholic website.
With the current discussions, you may be wondering what CAN priests do in the event an individual discloses harmful actions during a confession.
For any confession to be valid, the penitent must be sincerely sorrowful and committed to avoiding the sinful behavior in the future.
Thus, a priest may encourage the penitent to seek support and continue to meet with the priest outside of confession. Outside of the sacrament, a priest is bound as a mandated reporter. It is good practice for priests to disclose their mandated reporter status before beginning discussions outside a sacramental confession.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (confession) is available at St. John the Baptist weekly on Saturday from 4 pm to 5 pm or by appointment. To set up an appointment, please call the office: 253-630-0701.