Dear Friends,

It is my joy to hear all the first confessions of our 2nd graders in our Reconciliation preparation. We gather about 10 families at a time during Lent for a ceremony and confessions. When welcoming the families, I always remind the parents that the goal for that evening is simply to ensure their child has a good experience. Not making them fearful for not doing it correctly, forgetting their prayers or simply being so scared. I feel it is my responsibility to make sure each child has the best experience possible, and I have been doing this for many years. 

What a joy to hear the comments from the children saying it was not bad, or saying that it was easy, or skipping when they head to the family car. Parents are relieved when the children make it through the ceremony. 

So what happens when children grow up and it can become a very unpleasant experience? God’s mercy is to be celebrated as Luke’s Gospel says, "there will be more joy over one repentant sinner." Why is confession for some, not the best experience? There are many reasons I am sure, but I am asking people to remember we have some good priests available for confessions before Easter. The Crosiers, a religious order that helps us, and a couple of retired priests will be available for confessions. This Wednesday, April 9 from 6:00 - 7:30 pm there will be five priests available for confessions. The last opportunity will be the following Wednesday, April 16 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm (we will go longer if needed). There will be eight priests available for confessions. I would encourage parishioners to choose the earlier one if possible so that the wait is not as long.

When the Triduum (three days of Holy Week) begins on Thursday, April 17, all our focus should be on those three days so confessions should be completed on that last Wednesday.

I pray your experience of this great sacrament will be just as good as our 2nd graders. The goal is always to make sure every person has the best experience possible in celebrating God’s mercy. 
 Peace in Christ,                                                                                                                                   

Fr. Eric