What is the Sacrament of Penance & Reconciliation?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:

1422 Those who approach the sacrament of Penance obtain pardon from God's mercy for the offense committed against him, and are, at the same time, reconciled with the Church which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity, by example, and by prayer labors for their conversion.

Our God is a merciful God!

We receive God’s mercy within the sacrament of Reconciliation.

Click here for the complete confession schedule, including parish penance services during the seasons of Lent and Advent. To make arrangements for a special confession time, please contact a priest through the church office.

Want to learn more about confession? Go to FORMED and begin watching the Forgiven: The Transforming Power of Confession program. This will continue your formation in confession.

How-To Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Examination of Conscience

First Confession for Children

Children who have been baptized normally receive First Confession in the second grade. This can be done by attending St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School or our Parish School of Religion (PSR). First confession classes begin in September and continue through March or April.

Children older than second grade who would like to receive First Confession attend the Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC). These classes take place the same time as PSR. Children receive First Confession within the RCIC process, around Easter time.

Homeschool families and children seeking to receive First Confession collaborate with a parish priest. Permission to receive First Confession should be obtained at the beginning of a student’s sacramental preparation. A final review of the meaning and purpose of Reconciliation with a parish priest will be necessary prior to receiving First Confession. The priest will provide you with the context and content of this final review.