The Sacrament of Reconciliation: God's Gift of Healing and Forgiveness

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the most beautiful ways in which we experience God’s mercy and healing. In this sacred encounter, we are invited to receive the forgiveness of our sins and to be reconciled with God and with the Church. Through the words of absolution spoken by the priest, we experience a deep spiritual renewal, receiving God’s grace and peace.

Reconciliation is not just a ritual—it is a true encounter with God’s love. The penitent comes before God with a contrite heart, acknowledging their sins and seeking forgiveness. The priest, acting in the person of Christ, listens with compassion, offering absolution and guiding the individual towards healing. It is through this powerful moment of grace that we are freed from the burden of sin and given the strength to grow in faith and holiness.

The essential elements of this sacrament are the acts of the penitent—contrition (sorrow for sin), confession (honestly acknowledging our sins), and reparation (doing what we can to repair the harm caused by sin). These are followed by the prayer of absolution, through which the priest, in God’s name, forgives the penitent’s sins.

The Church teaches that "the confession of sins, even from a simply human point of view, frees us and facilitates our reconciliation with others." (CCC 1455). This sacrament brings peace to our hearts, healing to our souls, and restoration to our relationship with God. It is a moment of grace where we are reminded of God’s infinite love and mercy, and invited to begin anew.

At St. Anthony Church, we encourage all to make use of this beautiful sacrament, whether during regular confession times or through an appointment with one of our priests. Confessions are held on Saturdays from 3:00 to 3:45 pm, or by appointment.

Come, experience the joy and peace of God’s forgiveness. No matter where you are on your journey of faith, the door to reconciliation is always open.