Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated in January for all our 2nd grade students. Reconciliation, or Confession, is a beautiful Sacrament in which we receive forgiveness for our sins. Reconciliation heals our relationship with God and with others, and brings forth a chance for a new beginning.
Reconciliation FAQs
What is sin?
Sin is knowing something is wrong and choosing to do it anyway.
What is the difference between a venial sin and a mortal sin?
When we commit a venial sin, we hurt our relationship with God. Venial sin makes it harder to love God. When we commit a mortal sin, we turn completely away from God. God can help us feel sorry for venial and mortal sins.
How can our sins be forgiven?
Our sins are forgiven in the Sacrament of Reconciliation
Is an accident or a mistake a sin?
No. When we sin, we know something is wrong and choose to do it anyway.
Whom do we hurt when we sin?
We hurt God, ourselves, and others.
Does God always love us, even when we sin?
Yes, God always loves us no matter what we do.
Does sin change the love between God and us?
Yes, sin weakens our love for God. If we commit a mortal sin, we turn our back on God’s love for us.
Does God want to forgive us?
Yes. God is always quick to forgive us, and loves us always.
Who acts for Jesus in the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
The priest acts for Jesus in the Sacrament of Reconciliation
After the Sacrament of Reconciliation, is it possible for us to return God’s love?
Yes, Jesus gives us his grace, making it possible to return God’s love. In other words, our relationship with God is healed.
Basic Outline for Receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation
- Make a good examination of conscience; be ready to tell the priest your sins
- Go into the confessional and kneel down, or sit down. Greet the priest.
- Make the Sign of the Cross and say, “Bless my Father for I have sinned.”
- Tell the priest how long it has been since your last confession
- Tell the priest your sins, when you are finished say, “I am very sorry for these and all my sins.”
- The priest will talk with you and will help you find ways to help you be more loving towards God and others
- The priest will give you penance
- You recite the Act of Contrition, and the priest will give you absolution from your sins, and make the Sign of the Cross (you answer “Amen”)
- The priest will tell you to “Go in peace.” Thank the priest before you exit the confessional
- Return to your pew and do your penance
Scripture Passages to Help Reflect on Forgiveness
- Genesis 4:2-16 – Cain and Abel
- Luke 7:36-50 – The Sinful Woman
- Luke 15:11-32 – The Prodigal Son
- Luke 23:32-43 – The Good Thief
- Luke 15:1-7 & John 10:11-15 – The Good Shepherd