The Sacrament of Reconciliation

FIRST RECONCILIATION / PENANCE / CONFESSION   

Reconciliation/Penance/Confession is a Sacrament instituted by Jesus Christ in his love and mercy to offer us forgiveness for the times we have sinned and turned away from God.  Every time we sin, we hurt ourselves, other people, and God. In Reconciliation, we acknowledge our sins before God and the Church. We express our sorrow and receive the forgiveness of Christ and his Church, make reparation for what we have done, and strive to do better.

Confession is regularly scheduled as follows:

Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of this sacrament. The confessionals in the church give the Penitent an option of confessing anonymously from behind a screen, or face-to-face.

At the request of a Penitent, Confessions can be heard at any reasonable time by appointment. If the Penitent is home bound, a Priest will visit the home. Please, call the Rectory at 845-268-4464, or speak with a Priest after Mass.

Penance services are also offered throughout Advent, Lent and Parish Missions. These services will be in our bulletin or check our website.

Steps to Confession

1. Greet Priest, “Hello Father” 
2. Make the Sign of the Cross and say “Bless me father for I have sinned, it has been ….since my last confession and these are my sins.
3. Confess all your sins to the priest. (If you are unsure or uneasy, the priest will guide you.)
4. The priest assigns a penance.
5. Say an Act of Contrition, expressing your sorrow for your sins.
6. The priest then absolves you from your sins.

Rejoice! You have received the forgiveness of Christ!