“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.”
(Lumen Gentium, 11 § 2 as quoted in Catechism 1422)
What is Reconciliation?
Reconciliation, also known as the Sacrament of Penance or Confession, is God’s gift to us so that any sin committed after Baptism can be forgiven. In confession we have the opportunity to repent and recover the grace of friendship with God. It is a holy moment in which we place ourselves in his presence and honestly acknowledge our sins, especially mortal sins. With absolution, we are reconciled to God and the Church. The Sacrament helps us stay close to the truth that we cannot live without God. “In him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).
How Can I Participate in this Sacrament?
The Sacrament of Penance is offered at each Catholic Church. Since times vary, click here for our Parish Locator.
Information taken from the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults.
