Reconciliation is officially called the Sacrament of Penance. In the past, it was also called Confession. These titles are all aspects of the meaning of the sacrament.
The Sacrament of Penance is a celebration of God’s love and mercy. It celebrates the call to repentance after a process of conversion of heart. This includes confessing our sins and receiving the forgiveness of God through the priest. Through this process, a person is reconciled with the Church and continues to live as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
How do we celebrate reconciliation?
There are three forms of reconciliation.
- Reconciliation for Individual Penitents (Rite I)
This form is celebrated by an individual person in the presence of the priest. The place where this happens is usually a reconciliation room (what used to be called a “confessional’). A bible, a crucifix and candle are placed on a table in the centre of the space. The person may choose to sit facing the priest or to sit behind a screen and remain anonymous. The rite begins with a greeting, followed by words of encouragement from the priest. After a short reading from scripture, the person reflects on their circumstances, confesses their sins and seeks reconciliation. The priest offers advice and gives a penance that is meant to help in starting a new life and to remedy any weakness. The priest pronounces absolution and the rite concludes with a short thanksgiving. - Reconciliation for Several Penitents with Individual Confession and Absolution (Rite II)
This form of the rite begins with a Celebration of the Word – readings from scripture, hymns, prayers, a homily and an examination of conscience, followed by a call to repentance. Private confession and reconciliation follow. The rite concludes with a short thanksgiving, and a blessing and dismissal of the gathered assembly. - Reconciliation for Several Penitents with General Confession and Absolution (Rite III)
This form of the rite follows the same pattern as Rite II but does not include individual confession and reconciliation. It includes a communal prayer of confession and general absolution. The use of this form is restricted to emergencies and other special circumstances.
When do we celebrate reconciliation?
Individual Reconciliation (Rite I) is usually celebrated at set times during the week in parishes (often on Saturday afternoon) and may be arranged at other times by appointment.
This rite is meant to give people the opportunity for personal prayer and individual spiritual direction.
Communal Reconciliation (Rite II) is usually celebrated in parish communities during Advent and Lent and at other appropriate times during the year.
Who celebrates reconciliation?
Baptised members of the Roman Catholic Church who feel called to be reconciled with God and with the faith community can take part in the Sacrament of Penance.
This call to conversion and reconciliation occurs when one considers, judges and changes one’s life in the light of God’s love revealed in the person of Jesus Christ.
Prayer and participation in the Eucharist are the regular means of asking for forgiveness and being reconciled with God and the community. However, there are times when the faithful need the Sacrament of Penance or Reconciliation in their struggle to be forgiven and forgiving, to discover anew the gift of God’s saving action in their lives and to be strengthened to continue living as disciples of Jesus.
Your parish priest will be available to you if you wish to find out more about reconciliation.
Liturgy Brisbane also offers a resource called Individual Reconciliation to help adults and children prepare for the Sacrament of Penance.