Confession and Reconciliation, Part 3

Click here for the Novena for Ukraine: https://www.kofc.org/en/what-we-do/charity/ukraine.html?colorblock-tabs=prayer#colorblock-tabs

(Plain Text Version)

When we receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly, we will receive God’s help to root sin out of our lives.  We will draw closer to God and have better relationships with our neighbors.

The Seal of Confession

The priest may not reveal your sins to anyone for any reason.  Any law that requires priests to violate the seal of confession is unjust and must not be obeyed.

Preparation for First Reconciliation

Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion should begin when a child is about seven years of age.  First Reconciliation is received before First Communion. 

Frequent Confession

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is not simply for forgiveness of mortal sins.  It frees us from venial sins and helps us to overcome sinful habits.  We shouldn’t put off confession.  It helps us not to fall into sin.  Confession once a month is a good practice.

Vocabulary

Mortal Sin: A serious offence against God or neighbor, such as murder or fornication, done with understanding and free will.  Mortal sin causes the supernatural death of the soul.  Also called serious sin or grave sin.

Venial Sin: A less serious offence or a serious offence done without understanding or free will.  Venial sin is an illness of the soul rather than its spiritual death.

Absolution: In confession, the words of the priest which remove guilt and punishment. 

Perfect Contrition: Sorrow for sin arising from love of God, who is perfectly good and deserves our love.  For a mortal sin, perfect contrition removes guilt and eternal punishment.  For a Catholic, confession is still necessary before reception of the other sacraments.

Imperfect Contrition: Sorrow for sin from motives other than love of the all-perfect God.  It may come from fear of punishment, or the loss of grace.  In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, imperfect contrition is sufficient for forgiveness of mortal sins.

Conscience: Our use of faith and reason to decide if an action is good or bad.  Conscience must not be swayed by our emotions or desires.  Conscience never allows us to disobey God’s laws.   

Many thanks to:

Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J., Pocket Catholic Catechism, 1989, Doubleday

Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J., Modern Catholic Dictionary, 2001, Eternal Life

Novena for Ukraine

The Knights of Columbus have published a novena asking God for help for those affected by the attacks on Ukraine.  Here is a link to this prayer:

Click here for the Novena for Ukraine: https://www.kofc.org/en/what-we-do/charity/ukraine.html?colorblock-tabs=prayer#colorblock-tabs

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