Orthodox Church Wins Major Lawsuit Defending Seal of Confessional

Source: St. Elisabeth Convent, Minsk

SPOKANE, WA — On October 10, 2025, Washington State attorneys filed a stipulated Order, agreeing to a permanent injunction against a law that would have forced priests to disclose information from the Sacrament of Confession. The state also ensured clergy retain privileged communication exemptions available to other mandatory reporters, according to an OCA press release.

This ruling is a major victory for Orthodox Christians and all who value sacred confidences. The Orthodox Church in America, alongside other Orthodox jurisdictions and clergy, challenged the law earlier this year. The law targeted clergy, compelling them to break the Seal of Confession under various circumstances, risking fines or imprisonment. Such a mandate could have deterred penitents from seeking absolution, undermining religious freedom.

Metropolitan Tikhon, leader of the Orthodox Church in America, stated, “Our bishops and priests uphold the sacred obligation to maintain the seal of confession. This decision affirms that duty in law and conscience. We thank God and all who contributed.”

The Roman Catholic bishops of Washington filed a similar lawsuit around the same time. Both were resolved on October 10.

Previously, the UOJ reported on the OCA filing its suit against Washington State.

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