My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In His name, my God, have mercy. Amen.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is a gift from Jesus. To understand this Sacrament, it's most helpful to remember the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 13: 11-32, sometimes called the Parable of the Father's Prodigious Love). God loves us and is eager to have mercy on the humble heart. In this sacrament, God's mercy becomes truly and sacramentally present through the interaction between the repentant sinner and the priest who speaks the words of absolution.

If you heart is heavy and your mind racing with confusion and accusation, return now to the Sacrament of Reconciliation and seek the spiritual gift of peace. If you're a devoted disciple of Jesus, seek out Reconciliation regularly to receive graces and the many spiritual benefits of this sacrament, confimred by so many saints and holy men and women.

Fr. Nick or Fr. Benny is available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation on Saturdays from 4:00 to 4:30 p.m. in the Reconciliation Chapel (on the east side of the sanctuary).

You may also contact the parish office at 618.244.1559 for an appointment to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation at another time.