This sacrament is a sign and experience of God's unconditional forgiveness. We are called to be one people united with Christ and one another. Sadly, in our weakness, this unity is often ruptured through failures to love (i.e. we sin). Yet God's love for us does not cease when we fail. By expressing our sorrow for our sin in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we experience forgiveness and healing. Our relationship with God and our unity as Church is made whole again.
Reconciliation is offered in two ways in the parish:
- First Rite: A one-to-one interaction with the priest, in the reconciliation room ('confessional') which is located in the church.
- Second Rite: A communal ceremony which also includes a brief one-to-one interaction with the priest as sins are confessed and absolved.
Reconciliation is a sacrament which can be celebrated repeatedly throughout one's life, and indeed Catholics are encouraged to receive this sacrament frequently. They are obliged to receive this sacrament at least once a year.
At our parish, Reconciliation is available as follows:
-
Reconciliation (First Rite)
St Patrick’s: Every Saturday 9.30am (after 9.00am Mass)
St Bernard’s: 2nd to 5th Friday of the month after 9am Mass / 1st Friday of the Month 11am
and more often at both locations during the seasons of Advent and Lent.
or phone for an appointment.
-
Second Rite
Communal Reconciliation ceremonies (Second Rite) are generally held before Christmas and Easter and at other times of the year, as published in the parish bulletin.
In the Diocese of Broken Bay, Catholic children are eligible to make their First Reconciliation when they are in Year 4 or above and are at least 9 years of age by the date of reception. They must first have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. They prepare for this through the Children's Sacramental Programme.
Please note that Reconciliation must be celebrated after Confirmation and before First Eucharist (Communion) in the Diocese of Broken Bay.
For more information please contact:
Sacramental Co-ordinators: kccpsacraments@gmail.com
St Patricks Asquith: Phill Clarke
St Bernards Berowra: Peta Tonkin
Alternatively, contact the Pastoral Centre on 9456 2450.
Letter from Fr Biju together with 2024
Reconciliation and First Eucharist Programme dates and Enrolment form
Click here
To view the Diocese of Broken Bay Safeguarding Commitment Statement
Click here