Pope Francis continues to
invite us to rejoice in God’s Mercy. He said that Catholics are called to
grow ever more convinced of God’s mercy, which should always come before
judgment.
“How much wrong we do to God
and his grace when we speak of sins being punished by his judgment before we
speak of their being forgiven by his mercy,” he said. “We have to put mercy before
judgment,” he added.
MEMBERS OF ST. COLUMBKILLE’S PARISH ARE INVITED TO
CELEBRATE, IN A SPECIAL WAY, GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE & FORGIVENESS AT
THE MARCH 22nd 7:00 PM AND THE MARCH 25th 2:00 PM
RECONCILIATION SERVICES.
THE CELEBRATIONS WILL UTILIZE FORM II OF THE RITE.
Through
prayer, song, and scripture, we come to realize our sinfulness and know God’s
forgiveness. If you or someone you know has been away from the sacrament
for a while or have never had the opportunity to experience this positive,
welcoming celebration, please join us.
The
Rite involves the following:
Together, we come to realize that we are all sinners but
still loved by God who desires to forgive. Together, we say a prayer of sorrow which indicates our
desire to turn from sin back to God. Then, with the help of 14 priests we
approach a confessor and say something like:
“I
am grateful for God’s love & forgiveness,
even when I…”
We
mention anything major or other areas of our lives (sin) that keep us from
God’s love. You need not go into a lot of detail. The priest
doesn’t counsel or lecture but provides forgiveness through the ministry of the
Church. This part goes quickly.
After
you have had the opportunity to approach a priest & receive a penance &
absolution, you will move to the chapel by
way of the credence table door for a concluding prayer and blessing. A
wine, cheese, cookie & cocoa social will
follow in the social hall.
