Fourth Sunday of Lent

Readings for the Fourth Sunday of Lent:  Joshua 5.9, 10-12; Psalm 34; 2Corinthians 5.17-21; Luke 15.1-3, 11-32

The Sacrament of Reconciliation:  The Sacrament of Reconciliation, one of the two Sacraments of Healing, is an encounter with Jesus that forgives sins and restores us to grace. When the word confession or reconciliation is introduced into conversation there is immediate silence.  Why are people so uncomfortable when thinking of the Sacrament of Reconciliation?  The purpose of this sacrament is not reprisal but true reconciliation with God and the community.  It is a sacrament of healing.

This sacrament is sometimes referred to as the Sacrament of Penance although we commonly speak of “going to confession”.  Confession is just one moment in the celebration of the Sacrament of Penance. Confession probably gets the most attention because it is the most frightening part; however, we need to focus on the joy that comes from the healing through an encounter with the mercy and forgiveness of God. God longs to forgive us. Remember, God knows that we are much more than the worst thing we have ever done.

Prior to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, it is important to spend time reflecting (Examination of Conscience) on various acts we have committed or acts that we have failed to commit, commonly referred to as the sins of commission and omission.  An examination of conscience is the act of looking prayerfully into our hearts to ask how we have hurt our relationships with God and other people through our thoughts, words, and actions.

After we have confessed our sins, the priest gives us a penance to perform.  This can be an act of kindness or prayers to pray, or perhaps both.  After we have expressed our sorrow, we receive absolution and the priest dismisses us by saying, “Go in peace.” Joy is gained through the healing that comes from an encounter with the mercy and forgiveness of God, as we rediscover our Father’s unconditional love.

St. Patrick's Parish Reconciliation will take place on Monday, March 22 at 7:00 pm.

Readings for Fifth Sunday of Lent:  Ezekiel 37.12-14; Psalm 130; Romans 8.8-11; John 11.1-45