Sacraments
Reconciliation (Penance)
Forgiveness and renewal through God’s mercy.
When our relationship with God is obstructed through sin, God's merciful love awaits us in the Sacrament of Penance.
The Sacrament of Penance
Wash me, O Lord, from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
Our Lord Jesus Christ brought about reconciliation between God and the human race by the mystery of his Death and Resurrection (cf. Rom 5:10). This ministry of reconciliation was entrusted by the Lord to the Church in the person of the Apostles (2 Cor 5:18ff). The Church performs this ministry by bringing the good news of salvation to people and by baptizing them in water and in the Holy Spirit (cf. Mt 28:19).
But because of human weakness, it happens that Christians “abandon the love they had at first” (cf. Rev 2:4), and even break off the union of friendship with God by sinning. For this reason, to forgive sins committed after Baptism, the Lord instituted the special Sacrament of Penance (cf. Jn 20:21-23), which the Church has faithfully celebrated down through the ages, in various ways indeed, but preserving its essential elements (Order of Penance, Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship, Decree, 2 December 1973).
The disciple of Christ who, after sinning, is moved by the Holy Spirit and comes to the Sacrament of Penance, should, above all, turn to God with all his (her) heart. This inner conversion of heart, which involves contrition for sin and the resolution to lead a new life, is expressed by confession made to the Church, by due satisfaction (an act of penance), and also by amendment of life. God truly grants forgiveness of sins through the Church, which works by the ministry of priests.
Time and Place of Celebration
As a general statement, Catholics should confess their sins to a priest at least once a year (and when aware of having committed any serious sin before receiving Holy Communion). Regular confession (i.e., monthly) aids in spiritual growth and healing. An examination of conscience can help one prepare well for the sacrament.
At St. Noel, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is regularly scheduled on Saturdays from 3:30–4:30 pm.
In preparation for Christmas and Easter, Advent and Lenten Communal Penance Services are hosted by neighboring parishes on rotation.
In Cleveland, a Diocesan-wide Evening of Confession has been scheduled for the Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent from 5—8 pm, where every Catholic church is open for the faithful, especially for those who may have been away from the sacrament for some time.
An appointment to celebrate the sacrament may always be scheduled by contacting the pastor.
Examination of Conscience
- Is my heart directed to God, so that I truly love him above all things? Or am I more concerned with worldly matters than I am with God?
- Do I have firm faith in God? Do I follow the teachings of the Church and give witness to Christ in my daily actions?
- Do I pray regularly? Do I go to Mass every Sunday and on holy days of obligation?
- Do I have reverence and love for God’s name? Have I offended God by blasphemy, by swearing falsely, or by taking God’s name in vain?
- Do I have a genuine love for my neighbor?
- Do I contribute to the good and joy of my family by being patient, genuinely loving, and concerned for its members?
- Do I share my goods with others who are less fortunate than I am?
- Do I pray for the needs of others? Do I act on those prayers and live charitably and with justice?
- Am I concerned for the good and prosperity of the human family and community in which I live, or do I spend my life caring only for myself?
- In my work or profession, am I just, industrious, honest, offering my services to society out of love?
- Have I obeyed the lawful authorities and shown them due respect?
- If I am in a position of responsibility or authority, do I use it for my own benefit or for the good of others, in a spirit of service?
- Am I truthful, or do I lie and engage in deceitful actions?
- Have I harmed the life, physical health, reputation or honor, or goods of others? Do I hate others?
- Have I stolen from others? Have I made restitution for those I have stolen from?
- Do I forgive those who have sinned against me? Or do I hold grudges or seek revenge?
- Have I committed any sexual sins? Am I faithful to my spouse in mind and body?
