Reconciliation
Those who approach the sacrament of penance obtain pardon from God's mercy for the offense committed against him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion.
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1422
The Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick make up the Sacraments of Healing. God’s design is intended that all people be saved by Christ’s self-sacrificial
love. Through the Holy Spirit, we have the Sacraments of Healing to restore us to physical and spiritual health.
love. Through the Holy Spirit, we have the Sacraments of Healing to restore us to physical and spiritual health. The Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance should be seen as a chance to rid ourselves of sin and to turn our hearts toward God. Through confessing our sins to a priest, the representative of Christ, we can be absolved and brought to new life in our walk with God. When we repent from those things that separate us from Christ, the Sacrament cleans our hearts and helps us to live a redeemed life. Sin weakens the relationships with have with God and others. Reconciliation gives us a chance to make amends for our sins, restoring us with God’s grace.
The church advises celebrating Reconciliation regularly for all Catholics. It is one of the precepts of the Church that minimally, we receive Penance at least once a year between Lent and Trinity Sunday.
Preparation for First Reconciliation
The Sacrament of First Reconciliation or First Confession is received in the winter of 2nd grade for children. Students and parents participate in a time of learning. All Faith Formation and Home Schooled children share many parts of this experience as a community of faith.
Classes/programs vary by parish. Each program conforms to the Catechism of the Catholic Church and brings children and their families to a joyful reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation. There are many requirements for the students and families; watch for the First Reconciliation Student Handbook at the Parent Meeting.
The Sacrament of First Reconciliation or First Confession is received in the winter of 2nd grade for children. Students and parents participate in a time of learning. All Faith Formation and Home Schooled children share many parts of this experience as a community of faith.
Classes/programs vary by parish. Each program conforms to the Catechism of the Catholic Church and brings children and their families to a joyful reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation. There are many requirements for the students and families; watch for the First Reconciliation Student Handbook at the Parent Meeting.