When we sin, we deprive ourselves of God’s grace. And by doing so, we make it even easier to sin some more. The only way out of this downward cycle is to acknowledge our sins, to repent of them, and to ask God’s forgiveness. Then, in the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession), grace can be restored to our souls, and we can once again resist sin.

While Catholics are only required to go to Confession when they are aware that they have committed a mortal sin, the Church urges the faithful to take advantage of the sacrament often.

The Church especially urges the faithful to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (confession) frequently during Lent to help them in their spiritual preparation for Easter.

Non-Catholics, and even many Catholics, often ask whether they can confess their sins directly to God, and whether God can forgive them without going through a priest. On the most basic level, of course, the answer is yes, and Catholics should make frequent acts of contrition, which are prayers in which we tell God that we are sorry for our sins and ask for His forgiveness. But, in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we receive grace and peace and encounter a loving God in a way we cannot do with it.

Reconciliation is offered here at St. Joseph on Saturdays from 11am-11:45am, or by appointment.  Please contact any of our priests if you would like to make arrangements for another time. The Lord is waiting to share his mercy with you!