Reconciliation
"There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance." – Luke 15:7
AN ENCOUNTER WITH MERCY
What Is Confession?
The Sacrament of Reconciliation — also called Confession or Penance — is one of the most beautiful gifts of the Catholic faith. It is not about shame or punishment. It is about freedom.
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In Confession, you speak your sins to a priest in confidence, and through him, you hear Christ's own words of forgiveness. The priest acts in persona Christi — in the person of Christ — and the absolution he pronounces is the absolution of God Himself. Many people describe leaving Confession feeling lighter, freer, and more at peace than they have in years.
If it has been a long time since your last Confession — whether months, years, or decades — you are still welcome. The priest will guide you gently through the process. There is nothing to fear and everything to gain.
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How to Make a Good Confession
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Examine Your Conscience
Before going to Confession, take some time to reflect prayerfully on your thoughts, words, and actions since your last Confession. Use an examination of conscience as a guide.
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Enter the Confessional
Our confessionals are located at the back of the main church — on the left and right. You may confess face-to-face or behind a screen — the choice is yours.
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Begin with a Simple Greeting
Begin by saying, "Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [length of time] since my last Confession." Then tell the priest your sins simply and honestly.
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Receive Absolution
The priest will offer brief counsel, assign a penance, and then pronounce the words of absolution. Listen for those words — they are among the most powerful in the world.
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Complete Your Penance
After leaving the confessional, complete the penance the priest assigned — usually a short prayer. Then take a moment to give thanks to God for His mercy.
CONFESSION SCHEDULE
Monday–Friday
8:15am–8:30am
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Saturday
3:30–5pm
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By Appointment
Contact the Parish Office to Schedule
CONFESSIONAL LOCATION
​Confessionals are in the main church, at the back — on the left and the right. You may go face-to-face or behind the screen.
A SIMPLE GUIDE
If You Have Not Been in a While
If it has been many years since your last Confession, please do not let that stop you. The priest will help you through it — gently and without judgment.
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Simply walk in, tell the priest it has been a long time, and he will guide you step by step. There is no wrong way to begin, and there is nothing you could say that would shock or scandalize a priest who has heard it all. God's mercy truly has no bottom.
If you are a returning Catholic or have been away from the Church, we encourage you to call the parish office at (843) 768-0357 to speak with Fr. Stephen before your first Confession back. He would be honored to welcome you personally.