Penance

Examination of Conscience

Please use the link above to download the
PDF version of ANGELICVM University’s
Examination of Conscience to prepare for
the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Encountering Christ’s
Mercy and Forgiveness.

Through the Sacrament of Penance, Christ the Good Shepherd restores sinners to friendship with the Father and reconciles them to the Church. On the evening of the Resurrection He entrusted the apostles with His own authority to forgive sins: “Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them” (Jn 20:22–23). The Church teaches that contrition, confession, and satisfaction are its essential acts on the penitent’s part, while absolution by the priest, ministering in persona Christi, effectively grants God’s mercy. Saint Ambrose captures its grace: “In the Church there are water and tears: the water of Baptism and the tears of Penance,” reminding us that confession is the ordinary way our post-baptismal sins are forgiven and our communion with God renewed (Ambrose, De paenitentia). Pope St. John Paul II called this sacrament a “gift of the truth of conscience and of the saving love of God,” inviting frequent reception so that conversion becomes a habit of life (Reconciliatio et Paenitentia, 1984).

At St. Michael’s, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is regularly available to help the faithful live in the freedom and grace Christ desires for His Church. Confession is offered at scheduled times each week and at additional opportunities during Advent, Lent, and special penitential services. Parishioners are encouraged to receive this sacrament frequently as part of a faithful sacramental life.

Children preparing for First Reconciliation must be registered parishioners of St. Michael’s and participate in the parish’s sacramental preparation program prior to receiving the sacrament. Preparation includes catechesis, prayer, and guidance for both children and parents to understand sin, repentance, God’s mercy, and the healing power of forgiveness.

To learn more about First Reconciliation preparation or to inquire about the Sacrament of Penance, please contact
Sr. Rose Paul srrosepaul@stmichaelscatholic.com.

St. Michael’s Parish is honored to accompany the faithful as they encounter Christ’s mercy in this sacrament of healing and reconciliation.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available:
Saturdays 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Tuesdays 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
and also by appointment.