The Sacraments
Reconciliation
Come as you are. Leave as you are loved. The mercy of God has no conditions.
The Sacrament
What is Reconciliation?
The Sacrament of Reconciliation — known also as Confession or Penance — is the means by which God forgives sins committed after Baptism. It is one of the most intimate and most healing encounters available to a Catholic Christian.
After the Resurrection, Jesus breathed on his disciples and said: “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone's sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” (John 20:22-23) In these words, the Church recognises the institution of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The priest acts in persona Christi — in the person of Christ — and the absolution he pronounces is not merely symbolic. It is the real, effective forgiveness of God.
Sin damages our relationship with God and with one another. Reconciliation heals that damage — completely. There is no sin that cannot be forgiven by a sincere heart, and no shame too great to be dissolved by the mercy of God. Every Confession is a homecoming.
“Your sins are forgiven.”
— Jesus to the woman who wept at his feet (Luke 7:48)
“Let us celebrate and be glad, because this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
— The father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:24)
Who It's For
Is Reconciliation for Me?
Catholics who have made First Communion
Any Catholic who has been baptised and made their First Holy Communion can receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Church asks Catholics to confess mortal sins at least once a year and encourages more frequent confession for spiritual health.
Those returning after a long absence
If you have been away from the sacraments for years — or even decades — you are still welcome. The priest will guide you gently. You are not behind; you are simply home.
Those carrying a heavy burden
If there is something you have carried for years that you have never been able to say aloud — something you fear is unforgivable — please come. No sin is beyond God's mercy. Come and find out.
Those growing in holiness
Regular confession — even of venial (lesser) sins — is one of the most effective spiritual disciplines a Catholic can adopt. The saints confessed frequently, not because they were great sinners, but because they were serious about holiness.
When to Come
Confession Times
Before the Saturday morning Mass
Before the Saturday Vigil Mass
Approx. 9:45 am — duration varies
Before the Solemn First Friday Mass
By Appointment
If you cannot make the published times, please contact Father [Name] directly to arrange a private appointment. He is always glad to make time.
priest@madonnaministry.org.ukQuestions
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't remember exactly how long it has been since my last Confession?+
Don't worry. Simply tell the priest that it has been a long time — whether that is months, years, or even decades. He will not ask you to account for every day. God's mercy is not contingent on your keeping perfect records.
Can I confess the same sin multiple times?+
Yes. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is not a one-time event. We are weak, we fall, we return. The parable of the Prodigal Son does not end with one homecoming — the Father's arms are always open. Frequent Confession (even monthly) is recommended by the Church for spiritual growth.
What is the seal of the confessional?+
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 — to anyone, under any circumstances, ever. Not to police, not to bishops, not to family members. You can speak in absolute freedom.
I've done something I'm very ashamed of. Can I still go to Confession?+
Yes — and especially yes. The greater the burden you carry, the greater the relief when it is lifted. There is no sin too great for God's mercy. The only requirement is genuine sorrow and the willingness to try again. Everything else, God takes care of.
Does the priest give a penance?+
Yes — after your confession, the priest will give you a penance: usually a short prayer or act of charity. This is not a punishment; it is a small gesture of reparation and healing. It is completed after you leave the confessional.
God Is Waiting for You
There is no distance too great, no absence too long, no sin too heavy. Come home.