Penance, Confession, Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Penance is one of the greatest gifts Christ has given to His Church.
In Confession, we encounter not condemnation, but mercy, healing, and restoration.

If you have been away for a long time, or feel nervous about coming to Confession, please know this:
you are welcome.

Confession Times

  • Saturday: 5:30pm – 5:50pm
    St John Bosco (before the 6pm Mass)
  • Sunday: 5:30pm – 5:50pm
    St Mary’s (before the 6pm Mass)
  • Half an hour before any evening Mass or devotion
  • After Morning Masses

You may also make an appointment at any time.

What Confession Is

Sin damages our relationship with God.
Confession is the sacrament through which Christ restores that relationship.

The Church speaks of two kinds of sin:

  • Mortal sin, which seriously damages our relationship with God
  • Venial sin, which weakens our relationship with God

Confession restores grace, strengthens the soul, and brings peace of conscience.

When Confession Is Needed

If you are aware of having committed a mortal sin, you should go to Confession before receiving Holy Communion.

Venial sins may also be confessed, and doing so is spiritually beneficial.
If you are not sure whether something is mortal, come anyway — the priest will help you.

What Makes a Sin Mortal?

For a sin to be mortal, three conditions must be present:

  1. The matter is serious
  2. The person knows it is seriously wrong
  3. The person freely chooses to do it

Mortal sin cannot be committed accidentally.

How to Go to Confession

When you enter the confessional, begin by saying:

Bless me, Father, for I have sinned.
It has been ___ since my last Confession.

Then:

  • Confess your sins simply and honestly
  • All mortal sins must be confessed
  • Venial sins may also be confessed

When finished, you may say:

For these and all the sins I cannot remember,
I ask pardon of God and absolution of you, Father.

The priest may offer brief guidance and will give you a penance.
You then say an Act of Contrition, and the priest gives absolution.

An Act of Contrition

O my God, I am sorry for all my sins, and with the help of Your grace, I will not sin again. Amen.

After Confession, complete your penance as soon as reasonably possible.

Helpful Guidance

  • Confession should normally be concise and sincere
  • You should confess sins committed since your last Confession
  • If you remember a past mortal sin that was never confessed, do mention it
  • Confession is not the place for extended spiritual direction, though brief advice may be given

If the priest says something you find challenging, receive it calmly.
At times, the Holy Spirit speaks plainly in order to heal deeply.

How Often Should I Go?

A good and healthy practice for most people is:

  • every two to three weeks, or
  • whenever one is conscious of mortal sin

Confession more frequently than once a week is usually unnecessary unless advised by a priest.

A Final Word

Confession is not a punishment.
It is the sacrament of mercy.

As one bishop beautifully said:

“Confession has very appropriately been called the masterpiece of God’s mercy.”

If you are unsure, anxious, or returning after many years —
please come.

Need to talk?

If you would like to speak to a priest outside the confessional, you are always welcome to make contact. frowens@pm.me