THE SACRAMENT OF FIRST RECONCILIATION
January, 2012
After celebrating their First Reconciliation, the children enjoyed finding
their own “Zacchaeus” in the tree and bringing him down to be with Jesus.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is often called “Penance.”
The Catechism of the Catholic Church also calls it the “sacrament of conversion,” the “sacrament of confession,” and the “sacrament of forgiveness” (CCC 1423–1424). Each name identifies a central aspect of this sacrament, which has been celebrated with different emphases, at different times in Church history. The Second Vatican Council called for the reform of the Rite of Penance. The new rites highlight the centrality of God’s mercy and the importance of the community. Recognizing the harm caused by sin, the Rite of Penance emphasizes conversion. Frequent celebration of the sacrament is encouraged so that the penitent can be strengthened by God’s grace to live as Christ’s disciples.
SIGNS OF READINESS
Only those who have obtained the age of reason can be culpable of sin. However, this does not mean that young children are unaware of the importance of forgiveness in their relationships. Experiences of being forgiven and forgiving lay the foundation for catechesis about God’s mercy. Through personal experiences and catechesis, children learn to trust in God who loves them and invites them to be reconciled through his Son, Jesus Christ.
A child who is ready to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
shows knowledge of Jesus and the Gospel message of forgiveness
recognizes when he or she has done wrong
shows sorrow for sin, a desire for forgiveness, and willingness to do better in the future (National Directory for Catechesis 36.B.2, p. 135)
Together, parents, pastors and catechetical leaders determine a child’s readiness for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Children are expected to prepare for and celebrate this sacrament prior to (Confirmation and) First Communion.
(Code of Canon Law #914; National Directory for Catechesis 36.B.2, p. 135)
THE PARTS OF THE RITE OF RECONCILIATION THAT LEAD US TO RECEIVING GOD’S FORGIVENESS
Greeting & Sign of the Cross
The priest welcomes the penitent. The penitent greets the priest, introduces themselves and says, “I am here to ask for God’s forgiveness. ” Together they pray the Sign of the Cross.
Confession of Sins
The penitent confesses his or her sins to the priest. Bound by the Seal of Confession, the priest cannot reveal what has been disclosed to him. He may ask some questions in order to better offer guidance and counsel to the penitent.
Acceptance of a Penance
The priest gives a penance—a prayer or an action to make amends for sin and to show a desire to change. The penitent accepts the penance and completes it soon after celebrating the sacrament.
Prayer of Sorrow
The penitent prays an Act of Contrition or another prayer of sorrow.
Absolution
The priest prays the words of absolution, forgiving the sins of the penitent in Jesus’ name.
Dismissal
The priest dismisses the penitent with words of peace.