Reconciliation (Confession/Penance)

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​“Christ’s love is shown in the fact that he seeks the lost and heals the sick. That is why he gave us the sacraments of healing and restoration, in which we are freed from sin and strengthened in our physical and spiritual weaknesses.” YOUCAT §223

This Sacrament goes by many names that express what happens during it: “Reconciliation”, “Forgiveness”, “Conversion”, “Confession”, and "Penance". On the day of the Resurrection, Jesus stood in the midst of his apostles and said: "'Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.' And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they have been retained.’” (Gospel of John, 20:21-23).

This Sacrament can be received by anyone who understands what sin is and is conscious of their own sins. Traditionally, this is done prior to the reception of First Holy Communion at the age of reason. Your child should either participate in the First Confession program (6-8 weeks) and/or be able to answer some basic questions about what this Sacrament is, know the process of doing it, know the 10 Commandments, be able to make an examination of conscience, and have memorized the following prayers: Act of Contrition, Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be. 

If you have any questions, contact us for more details.