Confessions

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has 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

Confession. Image Courtesy of firstblessings.blog

Overview

The sacrament of reconciliation (confession) is our opportunity to receive pardon through God’s mercy for our sins, and to be reconciled with the Church community. Going to confession is a spiritually and emotionally positive experience where we not only receive but also feel God’s love; we renew our baptismal innocence; we get advice for the soul; and we clear our consciences. It’s a good thing.

Schedule

Confessions are available on Wednesdays from 5-6pm, and on Saturdays from 3-4pm. The confessionals are located in the back right corner of the church, near the votive prayer candles and the chapel. 

During Lent

During Lent, the parish and Archdiocese offer additional opportunities for individual confession. These are normally announced in the bulletin and posted on the website Calendar.

First Reconciliation

First Reconciliation is ordinarily celebrated in grade 2. Because of the importance of this sacrament, the amount of information that second graders must learn, and per Archdiocesan policy, preparation for First Reconciliation must start the year prior (or sooner) to the reception of the sacrament. Preparation includes sessions with the parents and children to supplement the classroom instruction. First Reconciliation is usually celebrated during Lent.

For those who attend St. Alphonsus School, preparation for First Reconciliation is part of the first grade school curriculum.

For those enrolled in the parish Christian Formation program, preparation begins in first grade. Details regarding preparation and requirements are listed in the First Reconciliation section of the Sacrament Preparation page.

Parents who anticipate homeschooling their first grader(s) need to meet with the appropriate parish staff to assure compliance with Archdiocesan policy. Please contact the Christian Formation Office at 414-421-2442.