Reconciliation, also called penance and confession, is a healing sacrament for the forgiveness of sins.

To schedule a time for confession with Fr. Gary click Here.

By the priest's sacramental absolution, God grants the penitent "pardon and peace." Five elements make up the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These are:

Examination of Conscience 

Before confessing, spend a little time thinking of what you need to confess. As a guide, click HERE.

Contrition 

Contrition requires sincere sorrow for one’s sins.

Confession 

Confession involves stating all the mortal and venial sins to the priest. 

Satisfaction 

Doing what is possible to repair any harm because of the offence (this could be returning stolen goods, paying compensation for damage done, prayers). When the priest gives you a penance to perform, satisfaction is made.

Absolution 

This is forgiveness by Jesus through the priest. The priest stands in the person of Christ, saying the words of absolution; it is God who forgives.  

How to go to Confession

Begin by saying, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.” Then add, “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [state the length of time] since my last confession.”

Now confess your sins. Be simple and straightforward. Just put into words what you have done wrong since you last went to confession.

The priest might then talk to you and give you some advice. He will give you a penance to do (a prayer or action that expresses your sorrow and your desire to put things right and live a new life).

The priest will then ask you to make an Act of Contrition.  An act of contrition can be a prayer in the person's own words, or a formal prayer. 

The priest then says the prayer of absolution, which is the moment when God forgives your sins. He may add some other prayers as well.