The forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism is conferred by a particular sacrament
…. called the sacrament of conversion because it makes sacramentally present Jesus’ call to conversion, the first step in returning to the Father from whom one has strayed by sin.
…. called the sacrament of Penance, since it consecrates the Christian sinner’s personal and ecclesial steps of conversion, penance, and satisfaction.
…. called the sacrament of confession, since the disclosure or confession of sins to a priest is an essential element of this sacrament.
…. called the sacrament of forgiveness, since by the priest’s sacramental absolution God grants the penitent “pardon and peace.”
…. called the sacrament of Reconciliation, because through it the penitent acknowledge and confess the sins to be reconciled to both God and the Church.
The sacrament of Penance is a whole consisting in three actions of the penitent (repentance, confession or disclosure of sins to the priest, the intention to make reparation and do the works of reparation) and the priest’s absolution. From the Catechism of the Catholic Church 1423-1491.
- The sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation is available each Saturday from 4:30-5:00 p.m.
- Parish Penance Services are celebrated during the seasons of Advent and Lent.
- First Penance and Reconciliation Preparations: The children prepare for this sacrament by participating in Religious Education through CCD or Catholic school. Those wishing to receive the sacrament need to be attending religion class as first graders in order to be adequately prepared. Children receive the sacrament as second graders in February. Please see the First Penance guidelines for a list of important dates and information concerning your child’s First Holy Communion.
