Reconciliation is a Sacrament of Healing. It is the next sacrament following Baptism. Through Reconciliation, we receive pardon from our sins and restore our relationship with God. It brings us back into the full grace of God.
What is the Form?
Form: The priest or bishop says: "God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his Son has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
What is the Matter?
Matter: The verbal confession of the sin, the individual's sins, contrition, and the priest's words of absolution.
Who is the Minister in Reconciliation?
Minister: A priest or a bishop are the only ones who may here a confession and absolve sins in the name of Christ. It is always Jesus who forgives our sins.
What is the Rite of Reconciliation?
In the Liturgy of Penance, the elements are ordinarily these: a greeting and blessing from the priest, a reading from Scripture, the confession of sins, the giving and accepting of a penance, an act of contrition, the priest’s absolution, a proclamation of praise of God, and a dismissal. Reconciliation is a step closer to God. The sacrament is a gift from God. After you confess what you have done, God will help you.
My First Experience of Reconciliation:
My first experience of Reconciliation was an amazing time in my life. When I received the sacrament of Penance, I felt connected with the Church and my faith. During this time in my life I knew that something great was occurring. Although I was nervous at first (to confess my sins to the priest), I felt free after doing so. This was a great feeling and this allowed me to open up and grow in spiritual grace. This was a experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. Reconciliation is an important sacrament because when it is over you feel closer to the Lord.
When Reconciliation is Offered at My Local Parish:
I attend Our Lady of Grace Parish in Howard Beach, New York. Confessions are heard on Saturday, from 4:00pm to 4:30pm and by appointment.
Include an Examination of Conscience and Explain How it is Used:
Examination of Conscience for Young Adults is one of my favorite examination of consciences to use before Reconciliation. An Examination of Conscience is used by reviewing the list of topics and questions given and then thinking back to what you have done that would be considered wrong. This is a helpful way to refresh on what you are going to confess to the priest and mostly what you are going to confess to God.