The Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Confession or Penance)

“To the eyes of faith no evil is graver than sin and nothing has worse consequences...” — Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1488)

Through this sacrament, we experience God's infinite mercy, healing, and grace. Reconciliation repairs our broken relationship with God, restores us to communion with the Church, and strengthens us to live as faithful disciples of Christ.

The Four Steps of Reconciliation

1. Contrition We recognize our sins with sincere sorrow and a true desire to change our hearts and lives.
2. Confession We humbly confess our sins to a priest, acknowledging our human sinfulness and personal failings.
3. Absolution Through the priest, we receive God’s forgiveness. The priest grants absolution in the name of Christ and the Church.
4. Celebration and Conversion We rejoice in God’s love and commit to live a renewed Christian life of holiness and grace.

Why Confess to a Priest?

“Only priests who have received the faculty of absolving from the authority of the Church can forgive sins in the name of Christ.” — CCC 1495

In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the priest acts in persona Christi—in the person of Christ—to mediate God's mercy and grace. Confession is not only about receiving forgiveness, but also about healing, accountability, and transformation.

For more information

If you have any questions about this sacrament or you want more information please contact Denell Robles at 760-689-6207 or drobles@stpeter-fallbrook.org.