Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." -John 20:21-23.
First Reconciliation
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a unique and beautiful aspect of the Catholic Church that allows us, as sinners, to obtain forgiveness for our sins and reconcile with God and the Church. Not only does it free us from our sins but it also challenges us to have the same kind of compassion and forgiveness for those who sin against us. We are liberated to be forgivers.
Jesus entrusted the ministry of reconciliation to the Church. The Sacrament of Penance is God's gift to us so that any sin committed after Baptism can be forgiven. In confession we have the opportunity to repent and recover the grace of friendship with God. It is a holy moment in which we place ourselves in his presence and honestly acknowledge our sins, especially mortal sins. With absolution, we are reconciled to God and the Church. The Sacrament helps us stay close to the truth that we cannot live without God.
First Reconciliation
Second Graders prepare for First Reconciliation through Saint Joseph Grade School and the Saint Joseph CCD program. For information about sacramental preparation, contact Sean Driscoll, Director of Faith Formation, at 574-234-3134, ext. 114, or email sdriscoll@stjoeparish.com.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation and Children (from the USCCB)
Confession Times
For those who have already received their First Reconciliation, the sacrament is offered at Saint Joseph Church every Saturday morning from 8:30am-9:30am, at special services during Advent and Lent, or upon request. If you would like to make an appointment with a priest to receive this sacrament at another time, please contact our Parish Office at 574-234-3134.
226 N. Hill St., South Bend, IN 46617
574-234-3134