During the Season of Lent, we seek to grow in holiness and devote ourselves to the Lord more deeply through prayer; through the reading of Sacred Scripture, through charitable works, by giving alms, and by exercising self-control over our passions and appetites through fasting, penances, and sacrifices.
We are also encouraged to avail ourselves to the great grace and renewal that comes from the Sacrament of Reconciliation. If you have not received this healing Sacrament in some time, Fr. Thiago and I are eager to warmly welcome you and gently “walk you through” its steps. Do not be afraid! Many spiritual directors advise going to confession monthly.
Confessions are heard on Saturdays from 3:30pm to 4:15pm on Saturday afternoons, and before and after many of our Masses. You have the option of going to confession anonymously (with a screen between the penitent and the priest), or face-to-face by sliding the screen to the open position.
The two following texts are common “Acts of Contrition” prayers in the United States:
O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin. Amen.
My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In His name, my God, have mercy.
Know that during this holy Season of Lent you are are all in the daily prayers of Fr. Thiago and myself. We pray that you are having an extraordinarily Lenten season for spiritual growth and holiness. Let us pray for each other and let us all “aim high” and fervently challenge ourselves.