Lenten Reconciliation Service
The peace that only comes from God
In December and January, there were advertisements on TV that used the words:
“If you’re longing to fill an emptiness and seeking a way home,
we invite you to experience the peace that only comes from God.”
Isaiah tells us that God will “never forget you.” In Psalm 62 we hear, “only in God is my soul at rest” and Matthew’s Gospel proclaims, “Your heavenly father knows what you need.”
As the Catholics Come Home ads ended, there arose stories from people who had been away from the Catholic faith. They told of a continuous feeling of emptiness and longing that disappeared when they returned to the Sacramental life of the church, receiving Eucharist and reconciling with God through the Sacrament of Penance. There is such wisdom in their stories and we can all learn from their experiences.
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The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the most healing experiences and can offer to all Catholics the sense of peace and calm that may be missing in our daily lives. Through the Sacrament we connect with God’s love and forgiveness in an almost tangible way. The feelings are the same for people of all ages. In fact, young children who make their First Reconciliation in preparation for First Holy Communion also tell how Reconciliation feels like “a warm hug” from God.
At Saint Mary’s, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is available every Saturday from 4 to 4:30 pm. During Lent, Saint Mary’s will have a Reconciliation Service on Monday, April 18 at 7 pm. Make an appointment to meet God in this Sacrament and receive the “peace that only comes from God.” The beauty of Taizé music and prayer will be combined with the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
If you have been putting off going to confession because you’re not sure what you’d say or how to prepare, we have a great resource for you below:
GUIDE TO THE SACRAMENT OF PENANCE OR RECONCILIATION
Adobe Reader (pdf - 36 KB)
Feel free to call with questions or concerns!
Parish Office
847-864-0333
fax: 847-864-0354
stmary1012@stmaryparish-evanston.org
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