A priest in white robes praying or conducting a religious service indoors, with an audience in darkened surroundings.

Reconciliation (Confession)

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.  

(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1422)

For more information about the Sacrament of Reconciliation, visit the USCCB’s website.

Schedule

  • Wednesday 6-6:45pm (in the Reconciliation chapel at the back of church)

  • Saturday 3-4pm (in the Reconciliation chapel at the back of church)

  • Private appointments may be made by contacting the office.

First Reconciliation Information:

If you or your child are Catholic but have not made your First Reconciliation:

  • Visit the Children’s Religious Education page for information on classes to prepare your child for Reconciliation and First Communion.

  • Visit the OCIA page for information on classes to prepare yourself for Reconciliation and First Communion.

Preparation Before Confession:

Examine your conscience carefully. Use the Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, or a suitable guide as a framework before you enter confession.

Core principles

Grave sins first - kind and approximate number.

Patterns or habitual sins. “I’ve always been that way, Father!” is not an excuse. It is the sin of despair, presuming Christ can’t free you from it.

Include sins of omission, what you failed to do. The spiritual life is more than avoiding sins, especially one particular sin. The spiritual life is a full life.

Be specific, but not excessive.

Things to Avoid

Justifying your actions; Excessive details; Blaming others; Storytelling; Vague language (Lust, Wrath, Pride). If you’re using your phone or notes, have it ready before you enter confessional.

Don’t try to impress the priest: this always backfires!

The Priest

Priests are people, too. If you are nervous or don’t know what to do, the priest will help you. If it’s been a while, the priest is usually just happy that you’re back. Also, be considerate. If confession ends at 4 pm, don’t show up at 3:59 pm and think you have all the time you want. Priests also likes to plan their day.

A Final Encouragement

Confession is not a performance or interrogation—it is an encounter with Christ’s mercy. The priest acts in persona Christi, receiving you not as a judge eager to condemn, but as a physician ready to heal.

A clear, humble confession—however imperfect—is always pleasing to God.

Contact Us