“‘The whole power of the sacrament of Penance consists in restoring us to God’s grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship.’ Reconciliation with God is thus the purpose and effect of this sacrament. For those who receive the sacrament of Penance with contrite heart and religious disposition, reconciliation ‘is usually followed by peace and serenity of conscience with strong spiritual consolation.’ Indeed the sacrament of Reconciliation with God brings about a true ‘spiritual resurrection,’ restoration of the dignity and blessings of the life of the children of God, of which the most precious is friendship with God.” (Catechism 1468)
Individual confessions are offered every Tuesday from 7 to 7:30 pm in the chapel and Saturday from 3:30 to 4:15 pm in the church.
The second precept of the Church requires all Catholics to “confess your sins at least once a year.” Doing so “ensures preparation for the Eucharist by the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation, which continues Baptism’s work of conversion and forgiveness.” (Catechism 2042, see also 1457)
Those who have been away from the Church or who have not been to confession for some time may find it helpful to speak with a priest to refresh themselves on how to receive this sacrament (i.e., how to “go to confession”); Father Vidal would welcome any questions you may have about the sacrament or about what one needs to confess. The Knights of Columbus have also made available online an excellent aid for confession.
If you’ve been away from the Church for whatever reason, there is no time like the present to come home.