As the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains, the forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism is conferred by the Sacrament of Reconciliation (also commonly referred to as “Penance” or “Confession.”

As with all the sacraments, Jesus instituted the Sacrament of Reconciliation (see John chapter 20.) It is our Lord Himself Who forgives the penitent his or her sins, through our Lord’s representative, the Priest, and the authority our Lord entrusted through the Catholic Church.

The sacrament itself consists of three parts: the confession of the sins by the penitent, who holds a firm purpose of amendment not to deliberately repeat the sin; the prayer of absolution said by the priest; and the penance performed by the penitent as a means of reparation for the sin(s) committed.

 In order for a confession to be valid, the penitent must confess all mortal sins he or she is conscious of having committed and not previously confessed. One or more venial (or lesser) sins may also be mentioned. 

 The Sacrament of Reconciliation is not meant to be a grueling experience. Simply naming your sins in number and kind is usually sufficient. Also, keep in mind that the priest is there as God’s minister of mercy, not harsh judgment.

Most confessions can be accomplished in two or three minutes, but if it has been a while, we can make an appointment, and are happy to walk you through the entire thing. 

Confession Times:

St. Francis De Sales

Thursday: 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 4:00  p.m.
Sunday: Following the 8:30 am Mass
Domingo: 12:45 p.m.

St. Philip the Apostle

Tuesdays in Lent: 5:30 pm
Saturday: 2:00 p.m.
Sunday:  Following the 9:00 am Mass