Contact Susan for more information about 2nd grade First Reconciliation Prep at religioused@stmichaelparish.org

Sin is before all else an offense against God, a rupture of communion with him. At the same time it damages communion with the Church. For this reason conversion entails both God’s forgiveness and reconciliation with the Church, which are expressed and accomplished liturgically by the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation. CCC 1440

This sacrament celebrates God’s loving forgiveness of his people, by restoring us to union with God and with the Church.  The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a chance to free ourselves from sin and to turn our hearts toward God. When we confess our sins, the priest, who is in persona Christi (the person of Christ), will absolve us of those sins so that we may better walk with God. When we are truly repentant, our hearts are cleansed from those things that separate us from Christ and help us to live a redeemed life. Our sin weakens the relationships we have with God and those around us. Reconciliation makes amends for our sins, and restores us to God’s grace.  First Reconciliation is celebrated when the child begins to understand and experience some moral decision-making. They must also understand the need for Reconciliation and the grace and joy it can bring them is real and an important part of their spiritual lives.