Learning to say sorry and to feel forgiven for our failings is a gift and an experience that every human should receive. The Sacrament of Reconciliation starts a new chapter in the faith life of a Christian. Unlike the sacraments of Baptism or Confirmation which are received only once, reconciliation is a sacrament that can be received as often as one needs, both for children and for adults. Being the first sacrament received after Baptism, the sacrament of reconciliation invites a person to enter into another dimension in their relationship with God: a deeper understanding of God’s unconditional love and forgiveness. In the Archdiocese of Sydney, this sacrament is usually first received by children in Year 2 or older, who have been baptised.
If your child has not yet been baptised, please know that our parish is happy to welcome your child for baptism prior to the celebration of the sacrament of reconciliation.
We come to the sacrament of penance when we recognize our sinfulness and with the desire to turn to God, we ask for God’s forgiveness.
We begin by preparing to receive the sacrament. We reflect on our lives, sometimes in the light of the Ten Commandments or the Beatitudes, perhaps using a passage from scripture, to focus our thinking.
The rite of reconciliation consists of several steps: The priest welcomes you and both of you make the sign of the cross. You tell the priest something about yourself, especially if you are not known to the priest – whether you are married or single, the times since your last reconciliation, whatever will help the priest to guide you.
Then you or the priest may read a short passage from scripture – this is optional.
You confess your sins. The priest may offer some advice and give you a penance. He may ask you to suggest a penance.
You pray the prayer of penance or carry out the penance after the sacrament.
You then pray a prayer of sorrow. In this prayer you express your sorrow, express your resolve not to sin, and ask for God’s forgiveness. You may use words of your own or you may use a prayer that the priest suggests.
The priest extends his hand over your head and says the words of absolution. You answer “Amen.”
Finally the priest dismisses you with words such as, “The Lord has freed you from sin. May he bring you safely to his kingdom in heaven. Glory be to him forever.” You can respond with full confidence: “Amen”.
Taken from: http://www.catholicaustralia.com.au/page.php?pg=sacraments-firsteucharist2
Reconciliation – Year 2 and Older
The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated on 26 November 2024 at 7:00pm for year 2 or above. Enrolments will open on 23 September 2024. There will be a 4 week preparation course that will begin in term 4 2024. All sessions will be held in the parish hall. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all sessions.
Enrolments Open 23 September
Parent Formation Meeting 15 October
Session 1 29/30 October
Session 2 5/6 November
Session 3 12/13 November
Session 4 19/20 November
First Reconciliation 26 November
Celebration of the Sacrament of First Reconciliation – Tuesday 26 November 2024 at 7:00pm in the church.
All candidates are required to attend one session per week on either Tuesday or Wednesday. It is preferred that you attend the same day each week, however, if you need to swap nights on any week, that is perfectly fine. If a child is not able to attend a session, it is requested that you send an email letting us know prior to the commencement of that session. All children should be accompanied by one parent and should bring along pencils/pens to write with. All other materials will be supplied. The cost of the programs is $30 which should be paid in cash at the first session.
It is also requested that your child’s baptism certificate be emailed.
Please email [email protected] if you are interested in taking part in this program.
