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Faith Formation · The Sacraments

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

"Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them."

— John 20:22–23

The Sacrament of Reconciliation — also known as Confession or Penance — is God's gift of mercy and healing to those who have sinned after Baptism. Through this sacrament, Christ himself forgives sins and restores us to full communion with God and the Church. It is an encounter with the loving mercy of our Father.

At St. Ann

Confession Schedule

Weekly

Saturdays at 4:00 PM

Confessions are also available by appointment. Contact the parish office to schedule.

A Guide

How to Make a Good Confession

The Church invites us to approach the sacrament with a prepared and contrite heart. These five steps will help you make a fruitful Confession.

01

Examination of Conscience

Before coming to Confession, take time to prayerfully reflect on your thoughts, words, and actions since your last Confession. Consider how you may have fallen short in your love of God and neighbor, using the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes as a guide.

02

Contrition

Be truly sorry for your sins — not merely out of fear of punishment, but out of love for God whom you have offended. Perfect contrition arises from love of God; imperfect contrition arises from other motives such as fear of hell. Both are sufficient for a valid Confession.

03

Confession of Sins

Confess all mortal sins — in kind and number — to the priest. It is also encouraged to confess venial sins. The priest is bound by the absolute seal of Confession and may never reveal what is confessed under any circumstances.

04

Penance

The priest will assign a penance — a prayer, act of charity, or sacrifice — to help repair the harm caused by sin and to strengthen you against future temptation. Complete your penance as soon as possible after leaving the confessional.

05

Absolution

The priest, acting in the person of Christ, pronounces the words of absolution. Through this sacrament, God truly forgives your sins. All guilt and eternal punishment due to mortal sin is removed. You leave reconciled with God and the Church.

Questions?

Contact & Resources

Parish Office

357 N. Cool Spring St., Fayetteville, NC 28301
Mon–Thu: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM · Friday: By appointment