Fisherman
Thanks for the clarification.
I wonder about this:
The confidentiality of.JW Elders and Penitents going to them for a spiritual purpose continue to be protected under Federal Law..
We know that down the line a confession will be shared with others, this reference seems to indicate that in order to keep the privilege they must remain secret.
3. California law defines a “ ‘penitential communication’ “ as “a communication made in confidence, in the presence of no third person so far as the penitent is aware, to a member of the clergy who, in the course of the discipline or practice of the clergy member's church, denomination, or organization, is authorized or accustomed to hear those communications and, under the discipline or tenets of his or her church, denomination, or organization, has a duty to keep those communications secret.” (Evid.Code, § 1032.)
http://caselaw.findlaw.com/ca-court-of-appeal/1731903.html