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Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish

Reconciliation

Sacraments
Overview

The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or the Sacrament of Penance, is a healing sacrament by which we experience the mercy of God. Through the ministry of a priest, we honestly confess our sins to Jesus and then receive his forgiveness and mercy. Regular confession brings healing to our hearts and restores our relationship with God and the community. 

Catholics are always welcome to return to this sacrament, whether it has been two weeks or two decades since their last confession. Confession times are listed on our website, and we invite you to participate as often as possible.

If you would like to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, please come to the church at the times listed on our website or contact the parish office to schedule an appointment.

To prepare to receive this beautiful sacrament, complete an Examination of Conscience, which helps you identify the sins you need to confess.

Guide to Confession for KidsGuide to Confession for Kids

Guide to Confession for Teens and Adults



First Reconciliation

First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, for children generally in the second grade, the preparation occurs on three levels: family, school and parish.

The schools play an invaluable role in helping the parish prepare for these celebrations. However, they are celebrations of the parish community, not the school, and as such, all inquiries about sacraments are done through the parish. Parents must request sacraments for their children – they do not automatically happen because the child is in the Catholic school system.

A registration and information meeting is held in the parish to provide parents with detailed information on the sacraments. There are also a series of sessions held with the parents and children. These are designed to assist parents to help their children prepare for the celebration of Reconciliation and Eucharist.

Parents are requested to provide proof of baptism for their children and, in some cases, pastoral intervention is required when there are obstacles to full communion with the Catholic Church. Parents are asked to work with their children to help them prepare for these sacraments.

It is very important that all parents who wish these children to receive the sacraments make the effort to attend Sunday mass with their children as part of the preparation process and beyond. As a community, we are most happy to assist families in their preparation for these sacraments and offer an opportunity each year for every child to bring forward the gifts at Mass. Details are shared at the parent meeting.

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