St Paul's Parish Website

Reconciliation is also known as the Sacrament of Penance or confession. There is no limit to how many times one can receive this sacrament - Christ is always ready to forgive us again,and again, and again. 

If we say, "We are without sin," we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  If we acknowlege our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing. For we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Chrits, the righteous one.  He is expiation for our sins, and not for our sins only, but for those of the whole world. (1 Jn 1:8-9)

  "There will likewise be more joy in heaven over one repentant sinner than over 96 righteous people who have no need to repent." (Lk 15:7)

 The Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance was begun by Jesus. Christ instituted this sacrament for all sinful members of the Church, above all for those who, since Baptism, have fallen into grave sin, and have thus lost their baptismal grace. It is to them that the sacrament of Penance offers a new possibility to convert and to recover the grace of justification. [Catechism of the Catholic Church Reference: 1442, 1446]                             

Reconciliation: The Sacrament of Forgiveness

The sacrament of Reconciliation is also known as the Sacrament of Forgiveness, Penance or Confession.  The names have changed over the years, but the sacred mercy of this sacrament remains.  In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Christ offers us absolution (forgiveness) for sins that we have committed. Because we are human, we sin from time to time.  When one realizes the wrong or hurt done and feels the need to be forgiven, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is God’s gift in our lives.  By admitting wrong doings and weaknesses, by being sincerely sorrowful for our actions, and by asking God to forgive us, we are set free.  Only God forgives sin. The priest acts as Christ's ears and mouth giving advice, penance and absolution. Anything said to a priest in confession is held in total confidence under the seal of the confession.

Reconciliation at St Paul’s

First Reconciliation for Children

The Canon Law of the Church and the regulations of the Archdiocese of Baltimore state that as children reach the age of reason, (about age 7), they are to be invited to prepare for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. The Law of the Church and Archdiocesan regulations specify that children should normally receive the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to receiving their First Communion.

St Paul’s offers a separate preparation program for those receiving the sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. One requirement is that children must be enrolled in Religious Education class, or attending a catholic school.  Children must also attend a separate program to learn about this sacrament, and to receive forgiveness at their First  Reconciliation.  To learn more about First Reconciliation, please contact the parish office.

 First Reconciliation for Adults

The church has a special program to prepare adults to receive reconciliation for the first time.  It is the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA).  The RCIA process usually begins in September, with adults receiving Reconciliation after learning about the sacrament.  Later in the RCIA process, adults learn about the sacraments of initiation,  Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.  

Reconciliation (Confession) at Other Times

At St Paul's the sacrament of Reconciliation is offered every Saturday from 4:00 PM until 4:30 PM, or privately by appointment. The confessional room is located on the left-most side of the church (Mary's side), in the front of the church, near the 'annex' pews.  One has the option of celebrating this sacrament face to face with the priest, or behind a screen. 

 Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I send you." And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained." (Jn. 20:21-23)

Need help preparing for reconciliation?

Click here for a helpful guide! 
Scottie Says "Confession is"   
What is confession?                  
How to make a good confession.
What's the difference between Confession and Reconciliation?  
"Ten Tips for Better Confessions: The Gift of Reconciliation"