In John’s Gospel we read, “As the Father has sent me, 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.”
Confession forgives any sins committed after Baptism. If a person is not repentant (sorry for their sins) then there is no forgiveness. Absolution for one’s sins is received by a validly ordained bishop or priest. Confession is the appropriate venue for confessing serious sin (mortal sin). To be forgiven, admit your sins in Confession, with true sorrow (regret) and repentance (a turning away from sin and toward the love of God and neighbor). The Sacrament of Reconciliation restores the state of salvific grace lost by actual mortal sin. Prior to going to Confession, it helps to spend time in prayer and to examine one’s conscience. The Holy Spirit helps us to see those areas in our life that are less than loving. This is a sacrament of healing; meant to reconcile us with God, with humanity, and with our very self.
Reconciliation at Saint Julie Billiart:
- Confession is offered on Saturdays from 3 pm until 4 pm or by private appointment with one of our parish priests.
- First Reconciliation is celebrated when the children are in 2nd grade and are enrolled in the Religious Education program, or are students at Cardinal Bernardin School. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated before a child receives First Holy Communion. Please contact the Religious Education Office for more information or to register.
