Reconciliation (or Confession) is one of the sacraments of healing as the Lord Jesus Christ, physician of our souls and bodies, who forgave sins of the paralytic and restored him to bodily health, has willed that his Church continues in the power of the Holy Spirit, his work of healing and salvation, even among her own members. This is the purpose of the two sacraments of healing: the sacraments of penance and Anointing of the sick (Ccc. 1421). No doubt that a good confession offers us spiritual, emotional and physical healing leaving us with that peace and joy which only God can offer us.
This sacrament is offered on a regular basis on Saturday evening preceding the 5: p.m. Mass at St Mary’s or upon request.
Children are customarily prepared to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion while in grade 2. For those enrolled in a Catholic elementary school, this involves a period of preparation combining schoolwork and home catechesis, together with regular participation at Sunday mass. Children not attending Catholic elementary school are prepared through catechesis program in the home and in church.