-
Preparation for the Sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation(Canons 959 - 997)"Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained."John 20:23Candidates for First Penance/Reconciliation are those members of the Christian faithful who are already baptized in the Catholic Church, have reached age of reason, are seven years of age or older and in the second grade or above.First reception of the sacrament of reconcilliation precedes reception of First Eucharist/Communion.Preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation actively involves the parents, so that, as primary catechists, they may better assist their child to understand, prepare, and be disposed to receive and celebrate this sacrament. In order to help parents to be better informed, the parents are required to attend parent meetings and at least one parent is required to attend the Reconcilliation Retreat.Godparents/Sponsors are not necessary for the reception of First Reconciliation. Parents are expected to live a sacramental life so as to lead their child by example, as they give witness to the Gospel in their daily lives.Requirements for entering First Penance Program
-
must already be baptized in the Catholic Church
-
must have attended the previous year of Religious Education sessions
-
know the difference between right and wrong
-