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

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, weekly participation in Sunday Eucharist, expressing sorrow for sin and readily granting forgiveness, and regular celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, both individually and at communal celebrations.

Policies for Catechesis and Celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation

• St. Thomas More Sacramental Preparation Policy.
• St. Thomas More Reconciliation Celebration Guidelines
• Diocese of Raleigh Guidelines for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist

Program of Preparation for First Reconciliation

There are four options for the preparation of children for First Reconciliation at St. Thomas More Parish:

1. Students enrolled at St. Thomas More School prepare in School during Second Grade.
2. Students enrolled in the Elementary Faith Development program prepare over two years in First and Second Grade, with most of the preparation from October to January in Second Grade. For catechesis students use the "Faith First Legacy" Second Grade book, and "With Jesus Always" which describes the prayers and ritual of the sacrament.
3. Students who are older than Second Grade enroll in the "Sacramental Preparation" class in Elementary Faith Development and use the Benziger "Reconciliation, Pardon and Peace" book and "With Jesus Always".
4. Students in Home Catechesis may prepare for Reconciliation with their parents after consultation with the Director of Elementary Faith Development, using these same materials.

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 Reconcilation, both individually and at communal celebrations.

The First Reconciliation Celebration will be on December 3 at 10:30 AM in the Church.

Growing Up Catholic - resources and activities for families on First Reconciliation 

First Reconciliation Retreats

St. Thomas More School and the Elementary Faith Development Department of the parish have together arranged Retreats to help parents and children prepare together for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Every child who will celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation this yearis asked to participate. Childcare will be available for younger siblings, but not older children. The Retreat will be bilingual. The program is 2 ½ hours long, and the Retreats will take place in the school gym.

Features of the Program:

• Opening Session: the Story of Zacchaeus – Jesus Forgives
• Rules to Live By: Rules for our families and for God’s Family
• What is the difference between Accidents, Mistakes and Sins?
• The Choices We Make: When we need to say ‘sorry’ and make things right again
• A role play of First Reconciliation: What to expect when you meet the priest
• A Reconciliation Ritual between Parents and Children: “Love is Patient, Love is Kind”

Sign up for the Retreat