Reconciliation or Penance

Anyone who approaches the Sacrament of Reconciliation obtains pardon through God's mercy for the offenses committed against Him and are at the same time reconciled with the Church. Christ in His mercy instituted this Sacrament because even though His children have been freed from original sin at Baptism, concupiscence, or an inclination to sin, still exists in all of us. This sacrament is for all sinful members of His Church, and above all for the members who have fallen into grave sin and have thus lost their baptismal grace and have wounded their communion with the Church. We know that only God forgives sins, but Christ entrusted that power to the Apostles and their successors so that all who seek reconciliation may receive it. In the confessional, we humbly bow before the Lord, acknowledging our sinfulness, and voicing our sins to God through the priest places us in a position to take responsibility for our actions and allows us to receive fully the gift of mercy the Father wants to give us. Everyone ought to know that a spirit of welcome, mercy, compassion, and joy await all who approach this sacrament with a sincere and contrite heart for the Lord is "slow to anger and rich in kindness and mercy."

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is where our imperfect humanity encounters the mercy of God’s perfect Divinity, and He restores our soul to its original baptismal innocence.  Reconciliation is offered regularly on Saturdays from 9:00am to 10am, Wednesday from 5:00pm to 6:00pm, and 20 minutes before the Saturday Vigil and each Mass on Sunday. Communal celebrations, Penance Services are offered during the seasons of Advent and Lent. To schedule a private confession for a time that best fits your schedule, please contact one of the priests at the parish office.

For 1st Reconciliation please see Religious Education page.