Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation the faithful receive pardon from God's mercy for the sins they have committed and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church community (Vatican II, Lumen Gentium, n. II; C. 959). In order that this Sacrament of enabling may truly achieve its purpose among the faithful, it must take root in their entire life and move them to more fervent service of God and neighbor (Bite of Penance.. n.7). 

St. Pius V offers the Sacrament of Penance on Saturdays from 3:45PM to 4:45PM. Confession takes place in the Confessionals either face-to-face or behind the screen.

Reconcilliation Services are held during Advent and Lent, generally during the last week of each of these seasons.



COMMON QUESTIONS:

1. Is there anything I have to do before Confession?

Get ready. Examine your conscience, be truly sorry for your sins, and be ready to change.

2. What do I say when I get in the Confessional?
The priest will greet you, simply exchange a normal greeting ...

You'll make the Sign of the Cross together..." In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

The priest may invite you to have trust in God .. by saying these or similar words: "May God, who has enlightened every heart, help you to know your sins and trust in his mercy." You could respond with "Amen."

---Or the priest will simply be silent. Then you could confess your sins. You might mention how long it has been since your last Confession. Many of us are used to beginning by saying, "Bless me Father for I have sinned. My last Confession was ____ ago. These are my sins." If you're stumped by this time, chances are the priest will simply ask, "What are your sins."

Then tell him what your sins are. Remember, it is important to confess all serious sins. Reconciliation means that we're ready to let go of all sins too. It's the ones we hold back that sometimes make things more difficult for us. So, no matter how difficult it seems, mention them all.

The priest may then speak to you. He may try to help you to see the source of your sinful actions. He will then propose an act of penance which you accept to make satisfaction for sin and to amend your life.

He may then ask you to pray an act of contrition ... or of sorrow for your sin. It is just fine to pray a spontaneous prayer. The priest usually has An Act of Contrition in the confessional.

The priest will then extend his hand toward you, or perhaps lay his hands on your head as he prays the Church's prayer of absolution:

God, the Father of mercies,
through the death and 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.
R. Amen.

The priest may pray a short closing prayer with you. He may also simply say, Go in peace to love and serve the Lord. Your response can be very natural ... a simple Amen, or Thank You ... Have a good day. Then go to spend some time considering your Penance.

 
PENANCE / RECONCILLIATION