Reconciliation

During the sacrament of Reconciliation, we experience the Mercy of God. By confessing our sins and receiving absolution and penance from the priest, we are restored to a life of grace. The Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance was instituted by Jesus, who forgave the sins of the paralytic and willed that His Church continue, in the power of the Holy Spirit, His work of healing and salvation. Jesus has willed that the life and actions of his Church be a sign and instrument of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Children are generally prepared to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time when they are in second grade. They are prepared through a special program and must already be attending faith formation classes or attending Catholic school. In preparing for this sacrament, parents work together with their children and discover God’s healing and loving presence in our lives. Typically, children receive this sacrament in the winter and then prepare for First Eucharist in the spring. Separate programming is available for older children as well as children with special needs.