The Sacrament of Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is the sacrament through which we experience God’s mercy, forgiveness, and healing. In this sacrament, Christ welcomes us back when we have turned away from Him through sin and restores us to friendship with God and the Church.
Jesus entrusted this sacrament to the Church when He said to the Apostles:
“Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”
— John 20:23
Through the ministry of the priest, Christ Himself forgives sins and offers the grace we need to begin again.
What Happens in Reconciliation
In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the penitent:
- Examines their conscience
- Confesses their sins to the priest
- Expresses sorrow and a desire to turn away from sin
- Receives absolution, the forgiveness of sins
- Completes a penance as a sign of conversion and healing
Through this sacrament, we receive:
- Forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism
- Peace of conscience and spiritual healing
- Reconciliation with God and the Church
- Strength to resist sin and grow in holiness
Why We Go to Confession
Sin wounds our relationship with God and with others. Reconciliation restores what has been broken and renews the grace first received at Baptism. Regular confession helps us grow in self-awareness, humility, and trust in God’s mercy.
The Church encourages Catholics to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly, especially during Advent and Lent, and whenever we are conscious of serious sin.
God’s Mercy Is Always Available
No sin is too great for God’s mercy. In Reconciliation, we encounter the loving Father who runs to meet us, heals our wounds, and welcomes us home.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9