Reconciliation (Confession)

Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession)

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is one of the great gifts Christ entrusted to His Church. Through this sacrament, Catholics who are truly repentant of their sins receive God’s mercy, forgiveness, and healing through the ministry of the priest.

Reconciliation restores and strengthens our relationship with God, helps us grow in holiness, and renews our commitment to follow Jesus Christ.

“Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” — John 20:23

Confession Times

  • Friday: 8:00 AM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM
  • Saturday: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Please consult the parish calendar or contact the parish office regarding holiday schedules and special liturgical observances.

What Is the Sacrament of Reconciliation?

After His Resurrection, Jesus entrusted the ministry of reconciliation to His Apostles and their successors. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Catholics confess their sins to a priest, express sorrow for those sins, receive a penance, and are granted absolution through the power of Christ working through His Church.

The sacrament provides spiritual healing and strengthens us in our ongoing conversion to Christ. Through the grace of this sacrament, we receive forgiveness and are called to live more faithfully as disciples of the Lord.

Who May Receive the Sacrament?

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is ordinarily received by baptized Catholics who are properly disposed, sincerely repentant, and desire to be reconciled with God and His Church.

Individuals who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or becoming Catholic are encouraged to contact the parish office or inquire about the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).

Preparing for Confession

Prayerful preparation helps Catholics receive the sacrament more fruitfully. Before Confession, take time to examine your conscience in light of the Gospel and the teachings of the Church.

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you recognize your sins, trust in God’s mercy, and make a firm purpose of amendment.

Preparation typically includes:

  • Prayer and self-examination.
  • Sincere sorrow for sin.
  • A desire to avoid sin in the future.
  • A willingness to make restitution where appropriate.

How to Go to Confession

  1. Examine your conscience prayerfully.
  2. Enter the confessional and begin with the Sign of the Cross.
  3. Tell the priest how long it has been since your last Confession.
  4. Confess your sins honestly and completely.
  5. Listen to the priest’s counsel and receive your penance.
  6. Pray an Act of Contrition.
  7. Receive absolution.
  8. Complete your penance as soon as reasonably possible.

If it has been a long time since your last Confession, simply tell the priest. He will gladly assist you through the sacrament.

Returning to the Sacrament

Many Catholics return to Confession after years away from the Church. If you have not received the Sacrament of Reconciliation for a long time, know that Christ continues to invite you to His mercy and forgiveness.

No matter how long it has been, the Church welcomes your desire to return to the sacraments and deepen your relationship with God.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I have forgotten how to go to Confession?

Simply tell the priest. He will guide you through the sacrament and help you every step of the way.

What if it has been many years since my last Confession?

You are encouraged to come. The priest will help you make a good confession and receive God’s mercy with confidence.

How often should Catholics go to Confession?

The Church requires Catholics conscious of grave sin to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before receiving Holy Communion. The faithful are also encouraged to receive the sacrament regularly as a source of grace and spiritual growth.

May non-Catholics receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation?

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is ordinarily celebrated by baptized Catholics. Those interested in learning more about the Catholic faith are encouraged to contact the parish office or inquire about OCIA.

Is everything said in Confession confidential?

Yes. The priest is bound by the Seal of Confession and may never reveal what is confessed in the sacrament.

The Mercy of Christ

In every celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Christ calls us to repentance, offers us His mercy, and strengthens us to live the Gospel more faithfully.

Whether you come frequently or are returning after many years, we encourage you to approach this sacrament with confidence in God’s love and mercy.

“Come back to me with your whole heart.” — Joel 2:12

Contact the Parish Office

St. Clement of Rome Catholic Church
15800 N Del Webb Blvd
Sun City, AZ 85351

Phone: (623) 974-5867

For questions regarding the Sacrament of Reconciliation, please contact the parish office.