The Sacrament of Reconciliation
Confession & Reconciliation
The most merciful thing God ever did was give us a way back. Confession is that way — always open, always waiting.
A Word of Reassurance
Whatever you carry, you can put it down here.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation — Confession — is one of the most beautiful and most misunderstood gifts in the Catholic tradition. It is not a tribunal or a humiliation. It is a moment of encounter with the mercy of God, mediated through the ministry of the priest.
When you walk into the confessional, you are not facing a judge. You are meeting a father who is running towards you with his arms open. Whatever you have done, however long you have been away, however ashamed you feel — you are welcome. God's mercy is limitless, and there is no sin that cannot be forgiven by a sincere heart.
If it has been a very long time since your last Confession, simply tell the priest at the start. He will guide you gently. There is absolutely nothing to fear.
Weekly Schedule
Confession Times
Confessions are heard at these times every week, unless otherwise announced.
Saturday
Before the Saturday morning Mass and Saturday Vigil
Saturday
Before the Saturday Vigil Mass at 6:00 pm
Wednesday
Duration varies — please wait in the church
First Friday
Before the Solemn First Friday Mass
By Appointment
If you cannot make the published times, or if you would prefer a private appointment at a time agreed just for you, please contact the parish. Father [Name] is always glad to make arrangements for those who need them. No one should be prevented from receiving this sacrament by an inconvenient schedule.
A Gentle Guide
How Confession Works
If it's your first time or you've been away a long while, here is a step-by-step guide to what happens.
Examination of Conscience
Before going to Confession, spend a few quiet moments reflecting on your life since your last Confession. Ask yourself: where have I fallen short in love of God and neighbour? There are many examination of conscience guides available online or from the parish office.
Sorrow
Genuine contrition — being truly sorry — is at the heart of the Sacrament. This doesn't mean emotional distress; it means an honest recognition that you have done wrong and a sincere desire to do better.
Confession
Tell the priest your sins, simply and honestly. Begin with “Bless me Father, for I have sinned. It has been [length of time] since my last Confession.” Then confess what is on your conscience. The priest may ask a gentle clarifying question.
Penance & Absolution
The priest will give you a penance (usually a short prayer or act of kindness) and then pronounce the words of absolution. At the words “I absolve you...”, your sins are forgiven — completely and definitively.
Give Thanks
After leaving the confessional, spend a moment in quiet thanksgiving. Say your penance if you remember it. Then go in peace — because that's exactly what you are.
“Your sins are forgiven.”
— The words of Jesus to the woman who wept at his feet (Luke 7:48)
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I'm nervous or don't know what to say?+
This is entirely normal, and the priest is completely used to it. Simply tell him it has been a while (or that it is your first time), and he will guide you gently through the process. There is no wrong way to make a sincere confession. The priest is there to help, not to judge.
How long does Confession take?+
A typical Confession takes between five and fifteen minutes, though it can be shorter or longer depending on what you want to share. Priests always have time for you — do not rush yourself.
Is everything I say completely confidential?+
Yes — absolutely and without exception. The seal of the confessional is one of the most absolute laws in the Catholic Church. A priest is canonically forbidden from revealing anything shared in Confession, under any circumstances, to any person, ever. You can speak freely.
Do I have to be Catholic to go to Confession?+
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church and is available to Catholics who have been baptised and have made their First Holy Communion. If you are interested in becoming Catholic, please speak to Father [Name] about our enquiry process.
What if I can't remember all my sins?+
You do not need a comprehensive list. Simply confess what is on your heart and what you are aware of. If you genuinely forget something, it is forgiven along with the rest. God knows your heart far better than you do.
Is there a face-to-face option or only behind a screen?+
At Madonna Ministry we offer both. The confessional has a traditional screen, and there is also the option for a face-to-face conversation with the priest in a side chapel. Please indicate your preference when you approach.
Come Home
However long it has been, whatever the reason — God's mercy is waiting for you. Come and experience it.