Reconciliation

About the Sacrament. Christ instituted the sacrament of Penance so that we could renew and restore our baptismal grace and the life of Christ within us.  The sacrament of Penance is also known as the sacrament of Confession or Reconciliation. However you name it, the four main elements of this sacrament are: Contrition, Confession, Absolution, and Penance. Let us review these four parts of the sacrament so that our Confessions may help us grow in grace.

Contrition:  Being sorry for sins, we have a firm intention to make amends and, with God's grace, to avoid these sins in the future.

Confession:  We verbally confess our sins to the priest, so that he may give us appropriate spiritual counsel and advice.

Absolution:  God's blessing is granted to the penitent for the forgiveness of sin and the restoration of baptismal grace.

Penance:  Prayers or acts of charity are assigned to each penitent to help them turn away from sin and to follow Jesus more closely.

Confessions are regularnly heard on Saturdays from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. The confessional room is located in the back of the church. Confessions may be available before and after some Masses, depending on what parish activities may be going on that require the priest's presence or involvement.

Confession Prayers. When you come to Confession, a pamphlet is available to help you prepare for Confession, and to lead you through the rite of Confession. So, please do not worry about how to go to Confession. Please just come in, and the priest will help you.

Anointing of the Sick. After your Confession, the priest can also bless you with the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick by request. So, if you have a serious illness, are awaiting surgery, or are under special medical care, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick can be received when you come to Confession. Please ask!

Visitations. The priest can also come to your home or healthcare facility to hear your Confession and to Anoint you, by request.