First Reconciliation

The Gift of God’s Mercy: Confession Before First Communion

The Sacrament of Reconciliation—also known as Confession or Penance—is a beautiful gift of healing through which we receive God's mercy and forgiveness. Instituted by Christ, this sacrament restores our relationship with God and the Church when we have sinned, and it prepares our hearts to receive the Eucharist with love and reverence.

Before receiving their First Holy Communion, children are carefully prepared to celebrate Reconciliation. They learn to recognize right from wrong, examine their conscience, express true sorrow, and understand that God is always ready to forgive. In this sacrament, they meet Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who lovingly seeks out the lost and rejoices when they return.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  1 John 1:9

Through the ministry of the priest, acting in the person of Christ, the penitent confesses their sins, receives a penance, and hears the words of absolution—a powerful assurance that their sins are truly forgiven. This first encounter with God’s mercy lays the foundation for a lifelong journey of conversion, grace, and communion with Christ.

Preparation for the Sacrament of First Reconciliation normally takes place in the second grade for children baptized in the Catholic Faith. A first year of religious education is normally required prior to beginning sacramental preparation. If your child has missed some or all grades, there is still a place for your child to begin.

To register your child for classes, please visit the information page on Religious Education Classes.