Reconciliation

Confession, also known as Reconciliation or Penance, is a profound Sacrament where we receive forgiveness from Christ. Through repentance and confession of our sins, we are absolved by the ministry of a priest, who acts in the person of Christ when he says, “I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

As narrated in John 20:19, 22-23: “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, Jesus showed himself to his apostles. He breathed on them, and said to them: ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’”

Why is Confession important?

Confession is crucial as it is the ordinary means to receive forgiveness for serious sins committed after Baptism. Sin damages our relationship with God and the Church, and this Sacrament reconciles us with God. Regular confession helps us grow closer to Christ and develop a mature conscience, offering healing and release from the burden of sin.

St. Jean-Marie Vianney beautifully remarked: “…we cannot comprehend the goodness of God towards us in instituting this great Sacrament of Penance. If we had had a favor to ask of Our Lord, we should never have thought of asking Him that. But He foresaw our frailty and our inconstancy in well-doing, and His love induced Him to do what we should not have dared to ask.”

If we miss Mass on Sundays or Holy Days of Obligation or commit serious sin, it is vital to go to Confession before receiving Holy Communion. In this Sacrament, the penitent confesses sins, expresses contrition, and through penance, seeks to amend their life. It is a beautiful journey where we die to the old self and are reborn in Christ, who is all beauty, bestowed upon us in Baptism.

When can I make confession at St. John the Evangelist parish?

Saturdays from 5.30 PM to 5.50 PM or please email islington@rcdow.org.uk for a private arrangement.