A newly ordained priest, fresh out of seminary, is nervous about his first day hearing confessions. He asks an older priest to sit in and observe.

After a few confessions, the senior priest asks him to step outside for some advice.

Senior Priest: “Cross your arms over your chest and rub your chin with one hand.”

The young priest tries it.

Senior Priest: “Now try saying things like, ‘I see… yes, go on,’ and ‘I understand. How did you feel about that?’”

The younger priest nods and repeats the phrases.

Senior Priest: “Now don’t you think that sounds a little better than slapping your knee and saying, ‘No way! What happened next?’”