“The whole power of the sacrament of Penance consists in restoring us to God’s grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship. Reconciliation with God is thus the purpose and the effect of this sacrament. For those who receive the sacrament of Penance with contrite heart and religious disposition, reconciliation is usually followed by peace and serenity of conscience with strong spiritual consolation" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1468).

Reconciliation Times

St. Anthony Parish offers Reconciliation or Confession Monday - Friday at 5 p.m.  Confession is also offered at Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday at noon at St. Mary Parish. Please check the calendar for any schedule changes. 

Individuals may also call the Parish Office to set up an appointment for reconciliation.

Additional opportunities for reconciliation are made available during the seasons of Advent and Lent. During these seasons the website and bulletin will be updated with specific times.

Reconciliation FAQ

What is the difference between Reconciliation, Penance, and Confession?
Nothing! Those are all different names for the same Sacrament. The different names highlight a different aspect of the sacrament: reconciliation focuses on how our relationship with God is restore; penance focuses on our action to make reparation for our sins; and confession focuses on the act of admitting our sins before God. 

Why do I have to confess my sins to a priest? 
Only God can forgive sin, since every sin (whether private or public, personal or communal) is committed against God and His law. However, God gave His authority to forgive sins to the apostles (see Matthew 18:18). When a priest administers any sacrament he is in the person of Christ and acts with his authority. When the priest says "I absolve you from your sins," he is speaking as Christ, through the ministry of the Church. 

How often should I go to Reconciliation?
A good spiritual habit is to go to Reconciliation once a month. The Church requires that every Catholic go at least once a year before Easter. 

How do I prepare for Reconciliation? 
To prepare it is necessary to examine your conscience, and to do so regularly. Every night you should reflect on your day and see when you have loved God and when you have failed to love Him. A good examination of conscience is provided here.