One of the great mysteries in life is the fact that so many people continue to carry heavy burdens. Burdens of guilt, hurt, and shame. It is as if we are afraid to look at ourselves honestly and therefore stray into the wilderness unable or unwilling to find inner peace. We remain burdened. For myself, I call the Sacrament of Reconciliation the ‘Cinderella Sacrament’ because it is so often ignored. It is identified as a child’s Sacrament on the way to receiving their First Eucharist. Parents bring their children but do not see the importance of the Sacrament for themselves. In my experience as a Priest, the Sacrament of Reconciliation can grant inner peace, healing, and self-acceptance. Imagine a place where you can come to unburden yourself, in total confidentiality and free of charge, whenever you wish. Imagine a place where you will find understanding and a non-judgemental listening ear. Imagine a place where God offers healing and new life to you. Yet the Gift of this Sacrament of Reconciliation is ignored while people carry heavy burdens unnecessarily. As for myself, I find this Sacrament the most taxing as it involves all my skills and yet it is often the most rewarding as I see burdens lifted from people time and time again.
For our parents and adults we are pleased ro offer two sessions on a biblical understand of sin. This will be most helpful for any adult who wishes to know more about this Sacrament. Please go to the adult education section and scroll down to your see the audio/videos sessions. How can we expect people to attend Reconciliation if they do not understand the theological underpinnings of this Sacrament of Healing? I for one would not regularly attend something I did not understand. To this end, I have introduced our Parish Sacramental Program – the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
