When Does St. Patrick’s Offer Confession?
St. Patrick’s offers the Sacrament of Reconciliation at various times throughout the week. Click this link to see our updated Sacraments schedule!
What is the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
Confession is a Sacrament instituted by Jesus Christ in his love and mercy. It is here that we meet the loving Jesus who offers sinners (all people) forgiveness for offenses committed against God and neighbor. At the same time, Confession permits sinners to reconcile with the Church, which also is wounded by our sins.
How to Go to Confession: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Enter the confessional and greet the priest.
Begin by making the sign of the cross and say “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It’s been [however many days/months/years] since my last confession.”
- List your sins.
Mention venial (everyday) sins and mortal sins, which are more serious. Try to be thorough, but it’s OK if you don’t remember every single sin. It may be more of a conversation, as the priest may ask questions or comment. It doesn’t have to be a non-stop laundry list of sins. When you’re done, conclude by saying “I’m sorry for these and all my sins.” What’s the difference between a venial and mortal sin?
- Listen to the priest.
When you’re done confessing your sins, the priest may offer some guidance and suggest ways to avoid sins in the future. He’ll then give you a penance, which could be a form of prayer, a service or some work of mercy. Often, you’ll be able to complete your penance while still at church. What’s the purpose of penance?
- Pray the Act of Contrition.
This prayer is short and simple: O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin. Amen.
- Receive absolution from God, via the priest.
The priest will say the following prayer to absolve you of your sins: God, the Father of mercies, through the death and the resurrection of His Son has reconciled the world to Himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Make the sign of the cross and close with Amen.
- Depart and fulfill your act of penance.
- Possible prayers the priest might ask you to pray for your penance – Hail Mary, Our Father, How to Pray the Rosary
Want to see an example of going to Reconciliation? Watch this video – Reconciliation Crash Course
Feeling overwhelmed about going to Reconciliation for the first time (or the first time in a while)? Check out this video from Fr. Michael Schmitz