The Sacrament of Reconciliation

The whole power of the Sacrament of Penance consists in restoring us to God's grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship. Reconciliation with God is thus the purpose and effect of this sacrament. For those who receive the Sacrament of Penance with contrite heart and religious disposition, reconciliation is usually followed by peace and serenity of conscience with strong spiritual consolation. Indeed the Sacrament of Reconciliation with God brings about a true "spiritual resurrection", restoration of the dignity and blessings of the life of the children of God, of which the most precious is friendship with God.
(CCC n.1468)

Sacramental Preparation - Key Information and Dates

To prepare for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist, children must normally be enrolled in one of the following:

  • Saint Thomas More School where students prepare for the sacraments in First and Second Grade
  • Saint Thomas More Parish Elementary Faith Development Program, in which students usually prepare in First and Second Grade. Older students may also prepare in two years through the Special Sacramental Preparation Program
  • Saint Thomas More Parish Home Catechesis Program, where students may prepare for Reconciliation with their parents after consultation with the Director of Elementary Faith Development.

The most helpful preparation for all students is the example and practice of their parents, to live a conscious Christian life at home, of prayer, reading the Scriptures, striving to follow God's law, expressing sorrow for sin and readily granting forgiveness, and regular celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, both individually and at communal celebrations.

See the full Sacramental Preparation Policy.

All students are invited to participate in one of the Reconciliation Family Retreats in the Fall and one of the Eucharist Family Retreats in the Spring.

The one remaining Reconciliation Retreat is on:

  • Saturday January 10, 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Parents are invited to register for the Reconciliation Retreats here.

The First Reconciliation Celebration is Saturday January 31st, 10:30 AM.

First Eucharist Retreat Dates are:

  • Saturday March 21, 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM.
  • Saturday March 28, 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM or 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM.

Registration for the First Eucharist Retreats is not yet available.

The First Eucharist celebrations are Sundays from April 19th to May 31st. The Mass times have not been chosen yet, but will be published here, probably by mid-October, at which time parents may select the date they wish.

Policies for Catechesis and Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation