Dear Parishioners, 

   Over a week ago we had First Reconciliation for those children preparing for Confirmation and Eucharist. We had ten children participating, thanks be to God. The Church in her wisdom places Reconciliation before these sacraments of full initiation to help the children realize the need to be in right relationship with the Lord and to receive the full benefits (graces) of the sacraments.  

   I’ve been hearing confessions for a long time and there is nothing that pleases me and the Lord more than to hear a confession of someone who has not gone to confession in a long time, perhaps decades. I say, “welcome back!” It takes courage and humility to come to confession. It means that we are examining our life before the Lord and want a better relationship with him and others. No sin is too large or small for the confessional. Priests have great esteem for those who approach confession with sincerity, humility and contrition.  

   Confession is not just for children. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is for all of us. We all sin and fall short and damage our relationship with the Lord. Our conscience speaks to us when we sin, and the guilt should lead us to seek God’s mercy and forgiveness in Reconciliation. Even if we do not commit a serious sin or mortal sin, the grace of the sacrament is there and will help us grow closer to God and help us overcome venial sins. On Monday, April 7 at 6:30 pm we are going to have our Lenten Penance Service. The service includes music, liturgy of the word, and Fr. Kenny St. Hilaire and I will be available to hear confession. It is a good time to go to Confession and prepare our hearts for Holy Week and Easter. During Faith Night this week, we will conclude the Forgiven Series on Formed, which has been very valuable, especially in preparation of our upcoming Penance Service.