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Toward a Better Understanding of Reconciliation
by Kate Ristow

Long gone are the days when children were marched to church on Friday for First Confession only to return the following day to celebrate First Communion. Today we better understand that the Sacrament of Reconciliation, or Penance, is much more than simply telling our sins to the priest. It is also about receiving God’s forgiveness for our sins and being reconciled with God and the Church community. It is about developing habits that help us to avoid sin and live as followers of Christ.

When should children first celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation? The National Directory for Catechesis is unambiguous on this point: “Children must receive the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation for the first time prior to their first reception of the Eucharist” (36 B 2, page 135). In most parishes and schools, this means that the appropriate age for catechesis on Reconciliation and the actual celebration of the sacrament is second grade.

Today we also recognize the importance of thoroughly preparing children to celebrate Reconciliation. Liturgical catechesis is the most effective approach for sacramental preparation. Liturgical catechesis includes ritual experience and expression, communal and individual prayer, Scripture, and doctrine and liturgy. Such catechesis connects the teachings of the Church with the liturgical rite to help prepare the children to participate consciously, actively, and fully in the sacraments.

Catechesis on the Sacrament of Reconciliation does not end after the first experience; it must be ongoing. As children mature, they are better able to recognize their need for conversion and forgiveness. Providing yearly opportunities for students in every grade to learn about God’s forgiveness and the Sacrament of Reconciliation ensures that they will grow in appreciation of God’s love and the power of Penance in their lives.

Finally, we realize that Reconciliation is not just for children. We are a community invited to reconciliation and healing on a daily basis—within ourselves, our families, our neighbors, and those who have not yet responded to God’s invitation to faith. As Church, we are called to reconcile and be reconciled so that we may “rediscover our unity and salvation” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 845).

Adult Formation
The Faith Connection®

Whole Community Catechesis
Online Resource

Sacrament Preparation
Eucharist and Reconciliation

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