"And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.  Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them" (John 20:22-23). 

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The Sacrament of Reconciliation is the sacrament of God's forgiveness.  In this sacrament, we confess our sins before the priest, who forgives us in the name of Jesus Christ. In this way, sins committed after Baptism are forgiven. 

There, before God, we can experience concretely the mercy that is found through Jesus Christ. 

Overcoming Fear

It is very common to have a fear of going to confession especially if it has been a while since you last went to confession. So, how do I get over this fear and accept the forgiveness that God gives us in this sacrament?

1. Learn about the sacrament and why we confess our sins

2. See this as an opportunity to be completely honest with no judgement. Confession is not about judgement, but forgiveness

3. Know that we need forgiveness to be free of our guilt. If you feel bad about something, you will continue to feel bad at times we are reminded of this until we are forgiven.

4. Know that you are nothing you have done is too big for God to forgive.

5. Know that the priest cannot tell anyone about your confession. He also can't bring it up outside of confession unless you want to talk outside of confession.