Parishes of Blessington & Valleymount
Valleymount · Lacken · Manor Kilbride · Crosschapel · Blessington
Sacraments
Penance/ Reconciliation
Available after the 6pm Vigil Mass Blessington
“God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy.” Pope Francis
In the Gospel we see Jesus reaching out to those who are lost, forgiving sins, and restoring people to wholeness. The Sacrament of Reconciliation continues this mission in the life of the Church. It is one of the Church’s sacraments of healing, through which we are freed from sin and strengthened in our weakness, both spiritual and human. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1420–1421).
For many people, going to Confession can feel unfamiliar or even challenging at first. Yet countless Catholics speak of the relief and peace it brings. In this sacrament we are not judged but met with mercy. It is an invitation to begin again — to set down burdens, to be assured of God’s forgiveness, and to receive the grace to move forward with renewed hope.
To celebrate the sacrament well, three simple steps are asked:
- Reflection In the original languages of the Bible, the word sin carries the meaning ‘to miss the mark’. Before Confession, we call to mind the times we have ‘missed the mark’ or fallen short of the fullness of life and love that God intends for us. The Sacrament of Reconciliation requires contrition, a genuine sorrow for sins and a desire to change.
- Confession We honestly name our sins before the priest. The priest may offer some guidance before praying a prayer of Absolution. We follow by praying the Act of Contrition.
- Penance We receive a prayer or action from the priest that helps repair harm and encourages spiritual growth.
Act of Contrition
O my God, I thank you for loving me.
I am sorry for all my sins,
for not loving others and not loving you.
Help me to live like Jesus and not sin again.
Amen