Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father who sent me, even so I 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, they are forgiven. If you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’
John 20:21-23
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is also known as the Sacrament of Penance or Confession. It is a moment of remember how much God loves us, and wants only the best for us. In this moment we reflect on the need we have for God’s love and grace as we become aware of moments of dis-grace and sin in our lives.
In this sacrament, the penitent confesses their sins to the priest in the Reconciliation Room or Confessional. The priest then gives absolution to the repentant soul, making the Sign of the Cross, and saying the words ‘I absolve you from your sins, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.’
It is God, through the priest, who forgives sins.
As the penitent must make restitution or satisfaction for his sins, the priest gives a penance to the forgiven one, usually prayer, fasting, or almsgiving.
Reconciliation gives one a wonderful sense of freedom and peace from the burden of sin. Sorrow, affliction, and a desire for conversion follow the remorse of sin in those with a contrite heart. The experience also brings a sense of gratitude to our generous Lord for his love, compassion and mercy.
Rite I Reconciliation (a one on one experience with a priest) is available under when required. Please make contact with the priest to make a suitable appointment.
Rite II Reconciliation (a community based celebration) is offered during Lent and Advent. Details of times and place are available in the newsletter or by contacting the Presbytery.