From the desk of Bobbi Sfire
Your children are well on their way to receiving their First Communion. I hope you are enjoying the process of helping them learn about this deeply sacred part of our Holy Mass. A part of taking First Communion is to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (confession). The children will be having their first reconciliation on Sunday, February 13. Please take some time to talk with your child about how to make a good confession and assist them in learning the abbreviated prayer that Chorbishop Alfred has given them to learn.
Below are some suggestions on how to make a good confession:
Examination of Conscience
How did I show my love for God and others?
Did I usually say my daily prayers?
Did I always obey my parents?
Did I think of others – my parents, brothers, sisters and friends? Was I mean to them?
Was I kind and fair in the way I played and worked?
Did I share my things with others?
Did I care for my things and the things of others?
Did I hurt others by telling lies or by calling them names?
Did I take something that doesn’t belong to me?
Did I worship God by going to Mass and taking part in the celebration?
Confession
Go into the confessional and kneel.
Make the sign of the cross and say – In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Bless me Father for I have sinned this is my first confession.
Explain to your child that at this point they will tell Father their sins and he will then give them some kind advice and tell them what their penance will be and ask them to say the act of contrition.
Father has given the First Communicants an easier Act of Contrition. It is as follows:
Oh, my God, I am sorry for all my sins.
They will then go sit in a pew to say their penance.
I hope that this is a very special time for you and your child. I continue to hold you and your family in prayer.
May you all be deeply blessed through this experience.
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