The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 12 letter word CONFESSIONAL
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
C
O
N
F
E
S
S
I
O
N
A
L
More clues leading to the result CONFESSIONAL
Buddy explains!
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does CONFESSIONAL mean?
CONFESSIONAL adjective- In the manner or style of a confession.
- Officially practicing a particular religion, as a state or organization. See confessionalism 1.
- (Roman Catholic church) A small room where confession—the sacrament of reconciliation—is performed by a priest.
- A confession.