Probably the most underused Sacrament in our Church is the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the act of Going to Confession. It’s no wonder, because one of the most difficult things for us to do as human beings is to confront and admit to our own sinfulness. It is too easy for us to deny we ever sin, or we minimize the effects of our sinfulness to the point that we don’t ever see the need to receive this sacrament. We also like to make excuses for ourselves on why we don’t approach this sacrament.

     Whatever the reason is that keeps us away from this sacrament, by doing so, we are missing out on the special relationship we can have with Our Lord that we receive in this sacrament. When we commit sin, either by commission or omission, there are three effects. First, sin always offends God and as a result we weaken our relationship with Him. Second, sin always weakens us spiritually, and serious sin breaks our relationship with God. Finally, sin is offensive to the Christian Community, as we are called by our Baptism to holiness.

     The Sacrament of Reconciliation remedies all three of these effects. Though we can always ask God’s forgiveness sincerely, and God does forgive. However, Reconciliation first strengthens our relationship with God. Reconciliation then strengthens us spiritually, giving us the strength to avoid sin in the future. Finally, Reconciliation restores our relationship with the Christian Community through the action of the priest who represents both Jesus and the Community.

     It takes a great act of humility to go to Confession and receive this Sacrament, but the effects of this Sacrament are so great, that it is truly worth the effort. I invite all of you to make use of this sacrament as part of your preparation for the celebration of our Lord’s birth which we celebrate on Christmas day.                                    

    

                                                                                     God Bless! Fr. Joe Bacevice