Reconciliation

In the sacrament of Reconciliation, often called "Confession or Penance," God’s mercy is made known to us and reconciles us with God and others. All forms of the sacrament, communal and individual, are a public celebration of forgiveness in the presence of the Church and its minister of the sacrament, the ordained priest.

 

As described in the teachings of the Church, sin is an offense against God, a rupture of communion with God. At the same time, it damages communion with the Church. For this reason, conversion and wholeness entails both God's forgiveness and reconciliation with the Church, which are expressed in the liturgy of the sacrament of Reconciliation.
 

Communal Reconciliation is celebrated in the church during the seasons of Advent and Lent with an opportunity for individual confession. The sacrament of Reconciliation is offered as individual confession on Tuesday evenings between 5:00 - 7:00 PM in the Reconciliation Room, which is located in the narthex of the church. An appointment to receive the sacrament at a different time may also be made by contacting the Parish Office at 847-885-7700, ext. 106.

Reconciliation (Children)

How to Go to Reconciliation:

Return to me with your whole heart
As Catholics, we seek the grace of God in the sacrament of reconciliation. Here we approach God in our sorrow, confess our sins, are given means to mend our ways through penance. It is meaningful to be in one another’s presence to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation because we are reconciled to both God and community.   
 
Whether you regularly receive the sacrament of reconciliation or have been away for a long time or this is your first time, remember the call to holiness on Ash Wednesday. God waits for our return and will again relent. Keep in mind, that if you are without serious sin and participate in the Eucharist, this is a means of forgiveness of lesser sin.    
 
Some may hesitate to take this opportunity for Reconciliation because it has been a while since their last confession. Some may be unfamiliar with “how to go to confession.” Others may be fearful of confessing their sins to a priest, or even question why this is necessary. Though you or someone you know may have had a poor experience in the past, priests recognize their role as an encounter with God’s unconditional mercy and that of a forgiving community.
   
So, what does the Rite of Reconciliation look like and how do I go to individual confession? 
Communal Reconciliation liturgy is celebrated with the Liturgy of the Word. An examination of conscience and individual confession follows, concluding with a song of praise for God’s mercy and blessing.
 
The sacrament has 4 parts: 

1. The priest “receiving” or hearing the penitent’s sorrow. In making the sign of the cross, I say “I am sorry for all my sins” (You may want to let the confessor know how long it’s been since your last confession or if it is your first confession.
2. Then, confession, naming what you are repenting—what is it that has separated you from your relationship with God and others. We call this sin. And you wish to repent from sin and change this behavior.
3. When this is expressed to the confessor (priest), he would help you toward your desire for conversion or give suggestions for making amends. This is called penance.
4. The priest/confessor extends hands and says a prayer offering absolution or forgiveness of sin. Before being dismissed, you may thank your confessor and he may send you with an invitation to “go in God’s peace.”